Just wanted to share some success with FT8 during these moderate solar flux days. The mode offers operators the ability to communicate despite unfavorable conditions with signal-to-noise ratio as low as −20 dB. In my first week of operating I worked 180 countries using just a simple dipole at 30 feet and 50W. It's widely used by amateur radio operators who want reliable contacts with minimal power, limited antennas, or difficult propagation conditions, especially popular among DXers and stations operating from restricted locations. Anyone else finding FT8 opens up DX that would be impossible on SSB or CW?

I found working DX-peditions was a lot less stressful than the constant yelling on phone or keying on CW trying to bust a pile up. The automated nature really helps when you can barely hear the DX station but FT8 pulls them out of the noise.

Started using FT8 from my apartment with just an end-fed in the attic. Many operators make global contacts using 25–50 watts or less and it's true! Worked VK and ZL last week on 20m when SSB was completely dead.

Remember that FT8 excels at weak signal work, so knowing when propagation peaks helps maximize opportunities by monitoring real-time propagation reports and solar data. During low solar activity, lower bands like 40 and 80 meters may perform better, while higher bands become more effective during strong solar cycles. Timing is everything!