Trying to stretch the footprint on AO-7 mode A is a most masochistic endeavor.  I have been collaborating with JH1BCL PM96ng to my qth in CN87wk (Seattle).  At 7719km a stretch for mode B, painfull for mode A.  This evening I coppied a piece of  Shige's call.  If the sunspots ever get going there may be some propagation on 10M and which might help the downlink, shades of RS-15.  Too bad the JA's can not operate 432.  If anyone has entered this painful are na, let me know.  I must remember, "if this were easy, everyone would be doing it". 73 Bob W7LRD Seattle