While many spectrum users are exploring higher frequencies in the search for increased bandwidth, a group of ham radio operators, operating under an experimental FCC license, are investigating propagation at 500 kHz, just below the U.S. AM broadcast band. The 500 KC Experimental Group for Amateur Radio received experimental license WD2XSH on Sept. 13. Already, 11 stations are on the air. A total of 21 stations are allowed under the license, which runs for two years. Effective radiated power is limited to 20 watts.
The stations have shown the potential for long-distance communication. The ARRL news article "ARRL 500 kHz Experiment Kicking into High Gear" said N6LF, operating as WD2XSH/20 in Oregon, is not only heard regularly throughout the western U.S., but has been copied in Hawaii and, possibly, in New Zealand.
You don't have to hold one of the experimental licenses to participate in the testing. Reports from listeners are welcome.
