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Chameleon Knowledge Base · The Complete Online HF Antenna Handbook

What Is Multi-Hop Propagation?

Learn what multi-hop propagation is and how HF signals travel around the world using multiple ionospheric reflections.

Getting Started HF Fundamentals Reviewed 2026-07-14
Short Answer: Learn what multi-hop propagation is and how HF signals travel around the world using multiple ionospheric reflections.

Explanation

Overview Multi-hop propagation occurs when an HF radio signal is refracted by the ionosphere multiple times, allowing it to travel thousands of miles beyond the range of a single ionospheric hop. Each hop consists of the signal traveling from the Earth to the ionosphere and back to the Earth's surface. Typical Hop Distance The length of each hop depends on operating frequency, ionospheric height, antenna radiation angle, and current propagation conditions. Factors Affecting Multi-Hop Propagation Solar activity. Ionospheric density. Operating frequency. Ground conductivity. Antenna takeoff angle. Advantages Worldwide communication. Intercontinental DX. Global emergency communications. Applied to Chameleon Products Most long-distance DX contacts made using Chameleon HF antennas involve multiple ionospheric hops, particularly on the 20-, 17-, 15-, 12-, and 10-meter bands. Related Articles What Is Skywave Propagation? What Is the F2 Layer? What Is Chordal Hop? What Is Skip Distance? Related Products All Chameleon HF Antennas

The exact result depends on the complete station: frequency, geometry, feed line, matching network, return-current path, environment, operating power, and the reference plane of any measurement. A low SWR establishes an impedance relationship at that point; it does not by itself prove efficiency, radiation pattern, compatibility, or safety.

What to Verify

  • Use the newest official product guide or primary service documentation.
  • Confirm the exact model, revision, components, configuration, and operating conditions.
  • Begin tests at low power and change one variable at a time.
  • Do not infer compatibility from connector or thread fit.

Learn Next

  • Antenna Selection: A Mission-First Decision Guide
  • Engineering Design Tradeoffs in Portable HF Antennas
  • Antenna Measurement Reference Planes
  • Understanding Common-Mode Current

Source note: Independently synthesized with reference to The ARRL Handbook for Radio Communications, 99th edition (2022), and The ARRL Antenna Book for Radio Communications, 24th edition (2019). Verify changing regulations, services, software, specifications, availability, and safety requirements against current primary sources.