The WSPR Story
WSPR (pronounced “whisper”) is an acronym for Weak Signal Propagation Reporter. It is a protocol, implemented in a computer program, used for weak-signal radio communication between amateur radio operators.
The type of radio emission is “F1D”, frequency-shift keying. A message contains a station’s callsign, Maidenhead grid locator, and transmitter power in dBm. The WSPR protocol compresses the information in the message into 50 bits (binary digits). These are encoded using a convolutional code with constraint length K = 32 and a rate of r = 1⁄2.
RECENT WSPR DATA
Extraordinary WSPR Experiences
Members of the HODARS have implemented this platform with much success over the years.
MH370 hypothesis
In May 2021, aerospace engineer Richard Godfrey suggested examining historical WSPR data as a way to define the flight path of Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 on 8 March 2014. In November 2021, Godfrey stated his belief that his analysis indicates the aircraft flew in circles for around 22 minutes in an area 150 nautical miles (280 km; 170 mi) from the coast of Sumatra before vanishing, later proposing a search area centered around 33.177°S 95.3°E.
The Appeal of WSPR
WSPR is popular among experienced amateur radio operators for many reasons
- Ability to Explore Propagation & Test Equipment With Minimal Power.
- Educational Benefits
- Empirical data from antennas
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