ISS SSTV Experiment Receive Images from Space
| SSTV Experiment on the International Space Station |
| A unique opportunity for amateur radio enthusiasts and space enthusiasts alike, an SSTV (Slow Scan Television) experiment is set to transmit from the International Space Station (ISS) from October 8th to October 14th. |
| The purpose of this experiment is for the ISS to test their new radio gear and configuration by transmitting 12 different images over SSTV. This presents a chance for individuals to receive and decode these images, providing valuable feedback on the quality of the new equipment. |
| A website has been set up where received images can be submitted, allowing others to view them even if they were missed during the transmission cycle. This website will also serve as a platform for users around the world to share their experiences and results. |
| The ISS will transmit on the frequency of 145.800 MHz using FM modulation, with the call sign RS0ISS. The SSTV mode used will be PD120. Most modern SSTV decoding software can automatically detect and adjust to the correct mode once an SSTV transmission is identified. |
| Receiving the transmissions requires a setup capable of handling the specified frequency and modulation type. A variety of methods can be employed, ranging from simple antennas connected to SDR (Software Defined Radio) receivers to more complex satellite tracking systems optimized for VHF bands. |
| One approach to receiving these transmissions involves using a tri-band vertical antenna, which covers the necessary frequency range. This can be paired with an SDR receiver and appropriate software to decode the SSTV signals. Additionally, utilizing satellite tracking software can help in predicting the ISS's position and pass times. |
| G-Predict is a useful tool for tracking the ISS's current position and predicting future passes. It also features a radio module that can adjust the frequency of an actual radio or SDR software package, compensating for Doppler shift as the ISS moves across the sky. |
| For decoding the SSTV signals, free downloadable applications such as MM-SSTV can be used. This software converts the received audio into images and allows users to see the decoded pictures in real-time. |
| The experiment presents an exciting opportunity for amateur radio operators and enthusiasts to engage with space technology and contribute to the evaluation of new equipment on the ISS. With the transmissions set to end on October 14th, there is a limited window to participate and receive these unique images. |
| ISS SSTV |
The ISS SSTV (Slow Scan Television) project is an experiment on board the International Space Station (ISS). It transmits images of the Earth and other subjects to amateur radio operators around the world using slow scan television technology. |
| Background |
The ISS SSTV project was launched in 2014 by a team of Russian cosmonauts on board the ISS. The experiment uses a modified Kenwood TH-D72A handheld transceiver and a Raspberry Pi computer to transmit images taken with a camera mounted on the ISS's exterior. |
| How it works |
The ISS SSTV system transmits images in a format similar to fax machines. The images are scanned line by line and transmitted as audio tones, which can be decoded using specialized software or hardware. |
| Receiving the signal |
Amateur radio operators around the world can receive the ISS SSTV signal using a receiver capable of decoding slow scan television signals. The received images can be displayed on a computer or TV monitor. |
| Frequency and schedule |
The ISS SSTV signal is transmitted on the frequency 145.990 MHz FM, with transmissions typically occurring for short periods (about 1-2 minutes) several times a day. |
| ISS SSTV Experiment: Receive Images from Space |
| The International Space Station (ISS) has been transmitting slow-scan television (SSTV) images since 2014, offering amateur radio operators and space enthusiasts a unique opportunity to receive images from space. In this article, we will explore the details of the ISS SSTV experiment, including how it works, what equipment is required, and how you can participate. |
| What is Slow-Scan Television (SSTV)? |
| SSTV is a method of transmitting images over radio waves. Unlike traditional television, which transmits multiple frames per second, SSTV transmits a single image at a time, using a series of horizontal lines to create the picture. The resulting transmission takes about 8 seconds to complete and can be received using specialized equipment. |
| How Does the ISS SSTV Experiment Work? |
| The ISS SSTV experiment uses a digital camera to capture images of Earth from space. The camera is connected to an SSTV transmitter, which converts the images into radio signals that can be transmitted back to Earth. These signals are received by amateur radio operators and space enthusiasts using specialized equipment, including software-defined radios (SDRs) and SSTV decoders. |
| Equipment Required to Receive ISS SSTV Images |
| To receive ISS SSTV images, you will need the following equipment: |
| - A radio receiver capable of tuning into the 145.800 MHz frequency (used by the ISS for SSTV transmissions) |
| - An antenna with good VHF reception |
| - An SSTV decoder or software, such as MMSSTV or EasyPal |
| - A computer with internet access to download and install the necessary software |
| How to Participate in the ISS SSTV Experiment |
| To participate in the ISS SSTV experiment, follow these steps: |
| - Check the ISS transmission schedule to determine when the next SSTV transmission is planned |
| - Set up your equipment and tune into the 145.800 MHz frequency using your radio receiver |
| - Use your SSTV decoder or software to receive and decode the transmission |
| - Save the received image to your computer for later viewing or sharing with others |
| Tips and Tricks for Receiving ISS SSTV Images |
| Here are some tips and tricks for receiving ISS SSTV images: |
| - Use a high-gain antenna to improve reception |
| - Experiment with different SSTV decoders or software to find the one that works best for you |
| - Practice receiving ISS transmissions before attempting to receive an SSTV image |
| Conclusion |
| The ISS SSTV experiment offers a unique opportunity for amateur radio operators and space enthusiasts to receive images from space. With the right equipment and some practice, you can join in on this exciting project and start receiving stunning images of Earth from space. |
| Q1: What is ISS SSTV Experiment? |
The ISS SSTV Experiment is an amateur radio experiment that transmits images from the International Space Station (ISS) using Slow Scan Television (SSTV). |
| Q2: How do I receive images from the ISS? |
To receive images, you need a receiver capable of decoding SSTV signals, such as a software-defined radio or a handheld transceiver with an SSTV decoder. |
| Q3: What frequency does the ISS transmit on? |
The ISS transmits SSTV images on 145.800 MHz FM. |
| Q4: How often are images transmitted from the ISS? |
Images are typically transmitted in bursts, with each burst lasting around 2-3 minutes. The frequency of transmission varies depending on the schedule of activities on the ISS. |
| Q5: Can I receive images from any location? |
No, you need to be within range of the ISS's signal, which is typically around 2,500 miles (4,000 km) in diameter. The best time to receive images is when the ISS is overhead or near your location. |
| Q6: What type of antenna do I need? |
A simple VHF antenna with a gain of around 3-5 dBi should be sufficient for receiving SSTV signals from the ISS. You can also use a handheld antenna or a mobile whip antenna. |
| Q7: Can I decode images using software? |
| Q8: How do I know when the ISS is transmitting images? |
You can check online resources such as NASA's ISS website or AMSAT's SSTV transmission schedule to find out when the ISS is scheduled to transmit images. You can also use tracking software to predict when the ISS will be overhead and potentially transmitting. |
| Q9: Can I transmit back to the ISS? |
No, the ISS does not have a receiver for amateur radio transmissions. The SSTV experiment is designed only for one-way transmission of images from the ISS. |
| Q10: What are some common issues with receiving ISS SSTV images? |
Common issues include weak signal strength, interference from other radio signals, and incorrect decoding settings. You can try adjusting your antenna, receiver gain, or decoding software settings to improve reception. |
| Rank |
Pioneers/Companies |
Contribution |
| 1 |
NASA's Amateur Radio Club (WA3NAN) |
Developed the Slow Scan Television (SSTV) system for use on the International Space Station (ISS) |
| 2 |
Russian cosmonaut Sergei Krikalev |
Transmitted the first SSTV image from space in 1994 during the Mir space station mission |
| 3 |
Mladenov, Miroslav (N3UMS) |
Developed software for decoding and processing SSTV images received from the ISS |
| 4 |
AMSAT-UK (Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation) |
Provided technical support and resources for the ISS SSTV experiment |
| 5 |
JARL (Japanese Amateur Radio League) |
Collaborated with NASA and AMSAT-UK on the development of the ISS SSTV system |
| 6 |
ARISS (Amateur Radio on the International Space Station) |
Provided amateur radio equipment and support for the ISS SSTV experiment |
| 7 |
ESA's Columbus laboratory |
Hosted the SSTV equipment on the ISS, enabling transmission of images to Earth |
| 8 |
Spaceflight Systems Corporation (SSC) |
Developed and integrated the SSTV hardware for use on the ISS |
| 9 |
USNA (United States Naval Academy) |
Participated in the development of the SSTV system and provided technical support |
| 10 |
ARRL (American Radio Relay League) |
Promoted amateur radio participation in the ISS SSTV experiment and provided technical resources |
| ISS SSTV Experiment Details |
|
| Experiment Name: |
Slow Scan Television (SSTV) Experiment |
| Frequency: |
145.990 MHz (FM) |
| Mode: |
SSTV, PD120 |
| Bandwidth: |
20 kHz |
| Transmitter Power: |
10 W |
| Antenna: |
HamTV antenna, located on the exterior of the Columbus module |
| Image Format: |
PD120 (320x240 pixels) |
| Frame Rate: |
1 frame per 30 seconds |
| Transmit Duration: |
Approximately 2-3 minutes per image |
| Receive Equipment: |
Amateur radio equipment with a compatible receiver and SSTV software |
| Software: |
MMSSTV, EasyPal, or other compatible SSTV software |
| Operating System: |
Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Image Decoding: |
Manual tuning and decoding of received images using SSTV software |
| SSTV Software Settings |
|
| Mode: |
PD120 |
| Frequency Offset: |
0 Hz ( exact frequency) |
| Bandwidth: |
20 kHz |
| Image Size: |
320x240 pixels |
| Scan Direction: |
Horizontal |
| Synchronization: |
Vertical sync |
| Receiving and Decoding Images |
|
| Step 1: |
Tune your amateur radio equipment to the ISS SSTV frequency (145.990 MHz FM) |
| Step 2: |
Configure your SSTV software with the correct settings (PD120, 20 kHz bandwidth, etc.) |
| Step 3: |
Start receiving and decoding images using your SSTV software |
| Step 4: |
Manually adjust the frequency offset and tuning as needed to optimize image quality |
| Step 5: |
Save decoded images for later use or sharing |
|