CB Radio: Skip propagation and the Superbowl on channel 6 Citizens Band (CB) radio has long been a staple of communication for enthusiasts, professionals, and hobbyists alike. Originating in the United States in the 1940s, CB radio gained widespread popularity in the 1970s through the 1990's. Since then it's popularity has significantly waned, but in the world of CB radio, you can still hear camaraderie among the hobbyists who continue to use this free and accessible service. Operating on 40 channels within the 27 MHz, or 11 meter band, the users of CB radio broadcast within a range of frequencies designated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for personal and business use. Channels are spaced at intervals of 10 kHz, starting at 26.965 MHz and ending at 27.405 MHz. Each channel has a generally accepted purpose, from general conversation to emergency communication, with Channel 9 historically designated for emergencies. The typical range of a CB radio signal is limited to within a few miles to tens of miles, depending on terrain and the elevation and arrangement of the antenna. Basically the reach of the signal is within line of sight of the antenna, however, under certain conditions, radio signals can travel much farther than usual in a phenomenon known as skip propagation. Skip propagation is when radio signals reflect off the ionosphere allowing CB radio signals to travel well outside the typical line- of-sight range. In these conditions, signals can travel hundreds or even thousands of miles. Sunspot activity, weather patterns, and the time of day all affect this phenomenon that seems to come and go without much warning. However, monitoring sunspot activity can help determine when the best chances of catching skip propagation occur. During periods of high sunspot activity, or "solar maximums", the ionosphere becomes more ionized enhancing the way radio signals reflect. This allows CB radio signals to reach across continents turning it's normally short range into a global reach. Even with the 4 watt limitation on transmitting power, signals can literally travel across continents. To boost a signal even more, some CB users will illegally amplify their signal to power levels well beyond 4 watts. These amplified signals are much stronger and can drown out weaker signals operating within the legal limits. Users of amplified CB radios have congregated around channel 6, or 27.025 Mhz, and created a language and culture all their own. Calling out to each other using nicknames called handles they try to reach the farthest with the strongest signal. Tuning into channel 6, nicknamed the "Superbowl channel", you can hear these enthusiasts use the typical superbowler lingo like "giving a wave", "getting down" and "bye, bye, bye" They refer to themselves using handles or 3 digit numbers that may coincide with their zip code or birth date. The channel 6 regulars have an awful lot to say and at the same time aren't saying much at all, just shouting out their name and listening for confirmation they were heard. Some CB users look at these superbowlers as an annoyance, with their overpowered signals bleeding into and interfering with signals in channels above and below their operating frequency. With 40 otherwise unused channels and 3 different modes of operation to choose from, though, it seems like an issue that is easily be remedied. After all, CB radio fosters a sense of community among its users. On Channel 6, this community is particularly pronounced, those in opposition can form communities on a different channel. There is plenty of frequency to go around. To me, the camaraderie found on Channel 6 reflects the enduring appeal of CB radio. Individuals from diverse backgrounds come together to share their passion for radio and communication. Whether discussing the latest equipment upgrades, swapping stories from the road, or simply calling out nonsense in an effort reach distant receivers, these interactions contribute to a rich tapestry of experiences unique to the CB radio community. CB radio continues to captivate enthusiasts around the world, offering both practical communication and a sense of connection that transcends its technical limitations. The phenomena of skip propagation and the vibrant community on Channel 6 illustrate the enduring allure of CB radio, where each transmission carries not just information but also a piece of the shared experience that binds its users together.