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Chameleon Knowledge Base · The Complete Online HF Antenna Handbook

Knife-Edge Diffraction and Terrain Paths

A ridge can diffract VHF/UHF energy into geometric shadow, but loss depends on frequency, clearance, ridge shape, and path geometry; terrain profiles and field tests are better than visual line-of-sight guesses.

VHF/UHF Propagation & Weak Signal Propagation Beyond the Local Repeater Reviewed 2026-07-19
Start with the practical answer: A ridge can diffract VHF/UHF energy into geometric shadow, but loss depends on frequency, clearance, ridge shape, and path geometry; terrain profiles and field tests are better than visual line-of-sight guesses.

What changes the result

Unusual VHF/UHF paths depend on geometry, frequency, polarization, terrain or moving/atmospheric scatterers, time, and receiver sensitivity.

The mistake to avoid

A temporary opening or one favorable location is not normal guaranteed coverage, and more power may not solve a deep geometric null.

Use this operating sequence

Use path and propagation tools, synchronize time where required, aim and polarize correctly, log conditions, and compare controlled changes over multiple attempts.

Source boundary

Current controlled CKB RF engineering, VHF/UHF, operating, and diagnostic references. Confirm current local coordination, band plans, satellite data, and equipment documentation before operating.

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