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An update concerning MARSRADIO. An unclassified HF communications backup is reserved for active DoD and Federal Agencies. The net is still very active guarding its frequencies for calls. In the first half of this year, there were just under 2000 requests for phone patches, METAR/TAF weather, message, radio, and SELCAL checks. Additionally, there have been a few requests for updated Avian Hazard information. We were excited about the possibility of improvement in our global coverage with the peak of the solar cycle. Unfortunately, there has been a huge number of strong solar storms that reduce coverage. Some requests have been heard from the Western Pacific, Europe, and the Middle East. A REACH aircraft was 5 x 5 sitting on the tarmac in Iraq just the other day. The net can still make CONUS, international and DSN telephone calls. We are attempting to set up remote sites in the western Pacific and Alaska. This is a long and difficult process for a volunteer group with no DoD budget, but it is consistent with the volunteer’s desire to do as much as possible for communications backup. Those interested in using the phone patch service should take the opportunity to register patch information ahead of time. A “phone code” service was initiated for morale calls so personal information would not be disclosed over the air. Phone codes have also been issued for Official patches. Visit hfmars.us for the registration form. Keep your information private. Provide the operator with your phone code. They will enter the code and have their computer form populated with all the required information to make the call including alternate numbers. The net is known for using 13.927 mHz as a calling frequency. Keep 7.6335 mHz in mind for an alternate calling frequency, especially with solar conditions. Some MARSRADIO stations also maintain a guard on 4.457 mHz and 11.407 mHz. No answer on 13? Call on 7 due to the propagation being different. MARSRSADIO can be contacted through marsradioglobal.us/contact. To the active members on here, we hope that you have a safe flight and do not need us. We are there if you do.