As others have pointed out, we have to remember that articles about another Maunder Minimum are *predictions* based on an *assumed* better understanding of the solar cycle process or *suggestions* on what's going to happen based on historical data. Until whatever happens actually happens, we should treat all this stuff with caution.
As for low band propagation being better at solar min, I grew up believing in this axiom. But in my opinion (and in the opinion of others) the deep and long solar minimum between Cycles 23 and 24 (2006-2010) didn't live up to this axiom compared to the not-so-deep and not-so-long solar minimum between Cycles 22 and 23 (1995-1997). It suggests that all solar minimums aren't the same. Perhaps a deep and long solar minimum is not good for the low bands (and there is a physical reason for this). Again, we'll just have to wait and see what happens. Carl K9LA _________________ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband