CQ World Wide 160 Meter CW Contest 2026
The ultimate low-band challenge returns
This weekend marks the return of the biggest challenge on the low bands.
The CQ World Wide 160 Meter CW Contest 2026 begins on Friday, January 23 at 22:00 UTC, and Team SZ1A will be on the air throughout the entire contest.
The 160-meter band is unlike any other. High noise levels, especially during periods of increased solar activity, the need for large antennas due to long MF wavelengths, finding and taking advantage of low noise QTHs, specialized equipment, and experienced operators make it one of the most demanding and thrilling contests to take part in.
It is a true test for low band enthusiasts and at the same time one of the best opportunities for DXers to add a few new ones on Top Band in the log.
Operating on 160 meters means long nights, careful listening, and disciplined technique. SZ1A’s participation in this contest is always a special experience, one that low-band DXers around the world deeply respect and appreciate.
During the contest, we will also have the opportunity to test our new full-size 160m doublet antenna under real operating conditions, running alongside our existing Top Band antennas.
The new doublet, together with its purpose-built external matching and tuning unit, is an important experimental addition to our station infrastructure and has already shown very encouraging early results.
We would like to remind everyone how important it is to carefully read the contest rules before taking part.
You can find them here: https://cq160.com/rules/index.htm
Naturally, everyone is more than welcome to visit us during the weekend and share a bit of the magic of Top Band together.
