RTL-SDR for Inmarsat Satellite – Dish vs Patch Antenna

Introduction In the previous post I looked at using my L band equipment to receive Inmarsat satellite signals. I was able to receive two satellites from my location at Toronto Harbourfront: 4F3 (Az=206deg) & 3F5 (Az=54deg). From my home QTH, I am only able to receive a partially blocked 3F5. I did a quick test… Continue reading RTL-SDR for Inmarsat Satellite – Dish vs Patch Antenna

RTL-SDR for Inmarsat Satellite – Planning

Introduction Inmarsat Satellite (Ref.3/4)) Inmarsat3-F3 (Launch 1998)Long = 27degEElev = 35,872Km (avg) Inmarsat3-F5 (Launch 1998)Long = 54degWElev = 35,793Km (avg)Visible QTH Inmarsat4-F1 (Launch 2005)Long = 143.5degEElev = 35,794Km (avg) Inmarsat4-F2 (Launch 2005)Long = 64degEElev = 35,794Km (avg) Inmarsat4-F3 (Launch 2008)Long = 98degWElev = 35,794Km (avg)Visible QTH Inmarsat4a-F4 (Launch 2013)Long = 25degEElev = 35,794Km (avg) Fig.2… Continue reading RTL-SDR for Inmarsat Satellite – Planning

RTL-SDR for Radio Astronomy – Signal Capture2

Introduction In the previous five posts, I looked at my receiving equipment used for GOES16, to see if I could re-purpose it for reception of the so called hydrogen line at 1420MHz/21cm (Ref.1/5). Over several weeks I tried and experimented with various times/configurations but was not able to receive the hydrogen line. Finally I took… Continue reading RTL-SDR for Radio Astronomy – Signal Capture2

RTL-SDR for Radio Astronomy – EM Interference

Introduction In the previous four posts I looked at re-purposing my receiving equipment used for GOES16 for reception of the so called hydrogen line at 1420MHz/21cm (Ref.1/4). I found that reception from my home location was not possible due to heavy interference or intermod. I did a brief study to get a handle on this.… Continue reading RTL-SDR for Radio Astronomy – EM Interference