Today on the Bands — Tuesday, July 21, 2026
A quiet sun sets the tone today, so it's a fine morning for portable QRP and low-power fun rather than chasing loud openings. We've got a Scottish park bench activation, an ARDC double-header of recaps and reports, some hard-earned HT wisdom, and a bargain shortwave receiver worth a listen.
- 01 Park Bench POTA with the Elecraft AX4: A Beautiful Morning at Castle Vale Historic Site
K4SWL squeezes a POTA activation into a family day in eastern Scotland, proving the compact Elecraft AX4 antenna is all you need for holiday radio.
Read at source ↗ - 02 The ARRL Solar Update
Solar activity stays low with only occasional C-class flares, so temper your band expectations and lean into the reliable modes for now.
Read at source ↗ - 03 Baker Island 2018 Press Release nr. 4
A look back at the KH1/KH7Z Baker Island DXpedition's major sponsorship from Elecraft, DX Engineering, and SteppIR ahead of that rare Pacific outing.
Read at source ↗ - 04 ARDC Community Meeting Recap: March 7, 2026
ARDC's March community meeting shared what the foundation accomplished in 2025 and where its grant-making priorities are heading next.
Read at source ↗ - 05 A Look Back at 2025: ARDC’s Annual Report is Now Available
ARDC's 2025 annual report is out, detailing new initiatives, a clearer strategy, and continued funding for innovation across our hobby.
Read at source ↗ - 06 Handheld Transceivers: A Generational Curse.
Off Grid Ham tackles our collective HT habit, the radio nearly every operator owns yet few truly master—a thoughtful reality check.
Read at source ↗ - 07 Knowing Your Radio Neighborhood.
A nudge to break out of the single-band silo and get acquainted with what's happening beyond your usual corner of the spectrum.
Read at source ↗ - 08 Exploring the AMNVOLT Mini SI4732 Receiver
Essex Ham reviews a £26 SI4732 DSP receiver from AliExpress, a tempting low-cost entry into portable listening for the curious.
Read at source ↗
The HamDaily digest — five minutes, the whole band.