The band was well populated with DXers trying out paths that have been closed for some time. From W5, most of Europe was coming through nicely with occasional openings to parts of Russia. The east coast undoubtedly got a better path to Russia with less Japan. The CQWW fone contest was marred by geomagnetic storminess, but many reported respectable QSO totals on 15. The waters on 10 Meters were also tested, and openings to both Europe and Asia were found.
Winter approaches, however, and the polar night is advancing over the high latitudes.
The fall DX season is therefore past its peak, and we should not expect this new solar activity to keep the bands open the way they have been this fall. We are in the early stages of the new cycle. I expect deteriorating conditions now through January on 10 and 15, with hope for a nice comeback in spring '98. Next fall season, the big news will be 10 Meters. A moderate increase in flux levels is very significant for 20 Meter nightpath propagation.