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Satellite SSTV and Weather Satellites

Weather Satellite Overview

NOAA satellites regularly broadcast weather images in SSTV format.

Active Satellites

Receiving Weather Satellites

Required Devices

1. VHF Receiver - 137-138 MHz range
2. Omnidirectional Antenna - 1/4 wave dipole or double diamond
3. Receiver Interface - Audio output to computer
4. Software - WXTOIMG or similar programs

Reception Steps

1. Find pass times - Use prediction tools
2. Prepare antenna - Point towards the satellite
3. Tune frequency - Listen for signal enhancement
4. Record the pass - Save audio
5. Decode images - Use decoding software

Best Practices

• Receive in clear line of sight
• Nighttime reception is better
• Average results over multiple passes
• Calibrate receiver drift

ISS SSTV Events

About ISS

The International Space Station regularly conducts SSTV events.

• Frequency: 145.800 MHz (approx.)
• Duration: 10-20 minutes
• Schedule: Irregular, but often
• Coverage: Under satellite track

ISS Tracking

1. Check ISS calendar (heavens-above.com)
2. Calculate local pass times
3. Prepare devices and antenna
4. Pre-configure frequency
5. Receive at optimal time

Satellite Image Processing

Image Types

1. True Color - RGB color images
2. Infrared - Temperature mapping
3. Enhanced - Various processing
4. Composite - Multi-layer combination

Processing Software

• WXTOIMG - Windows/Linux/Mac
• WXtrack - Orbit tracking
• NOAA Weather - Real-time data

Scientific Applications

SSTV satellite images are used for:

• Weather forecasting
• Climate research
• Disaster response
• Environmental monitoring
• Teaching and research

Recording and Archiving

Saving Images

1. Capture received audio
2. Decode to image files
3. Add metadata (date, time, satellite)
4. Archive storage
5. Share with others

Sharing Your Reception

1. SSTV forums and websites
2. Social media
3. Amateur radio networks
4. Scientific community

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