Building a Global Satellite Tracking Network with Makers Building a LoRa Satellite Tracker with the TinyGS Project The world of satellite technology has become more accessible to makers and hobbyists in recent years. With the rise of affordable hardware and open-source software, it's now possible for individuals to build their own satellite tracking systems. In this article, we'll explore how to build a LoRa satellite tracker using the TinyGS project. The TinyGS project is an innovative initiative that combines cloud services with standard boards to create a global tracking network for satellites. By utilizing automated firmware uploaders and provisioning credentials through Telegram bots, the project provides a seamless experience for makers to participate in satellite technology. To start building our LoRa satellite tracker, we'll need a few components: A LoRa module (e.g., SX1278) A microcontroller board (e.g., Arduino or ESP32) An antenna A power source The first step is to set up our LoRa module and connect it to our microcontroller board. We'll then need to install the necessary libraries and software to communicate with the LoRa module. Next, we'll configure our device to connect to the TinyGS network using a Telegram bot. This will provide us with a unique identifier and credentials to access the network. Once connected to the network, our device will begin receiving information about upcoming satellite passes. We can then use this data to adjust our receiver's frequency and modulation parameters to prepare for the next satellite pass. To test our receiver before deploying it on the roof, we can flash a second board with the same software but with a different name and enable TX. This will allow us to simulate a satellite signal and verify that our receiver is working correctly. With our receiver tested and verified, we can deploy it on the roof and start receiving satellite messages. We can monitor our device's performance through the TinyGS user console and receive notifications when our station receives packets from space. The TinyGS project is a game-changer for makers interested in satellite technology. By providing a global tracking network and automated firmware uploaders, it's now possible for individuals to participate in this exciting field without requiring extensive resources or expertise. In conclusion, building a LoRa satellite tracker with the TinyGS project is an exciting and rewarding experience. With its innovative approach to satellite technology, the project provides makers with a unique opportunity to participate in this field and contribute to the global tracking network. Project Name: TinyGS Project Description: The TinyGS Project is a research initiative that focuses on the development of a novel, ultra-compact and highly efficient Gas Chromatograph (GC) system. The project aims to miniaturize traditional GC technology, making it more portable, cost-effective, and accessible for various applications. Background: The idea of developing a compact GC system emerged from the need for rapid and accurate chemical analysis in various fields, such as environmental monitoring, food safety, and healthcare. Traditional GC systems are often large, expensive, and require specialized expertise to operate, limiting their widespread adoption. The TinyGS Project seeks to address these limitations by leveraging advances in microfabrication, nanotechnology, and advanced materials. Building a Global Satellite Tracking Network with Makers A community-driven initiative to create a network of satellite tracking stations around the world. What is Satellite Tracking? Satellite tracking involves monitoring the position and trajectory of artificial satellites orbiting the Earth. This information can be used for a variety of purposes, including space weather forecasting, satellite operation, and astronomical research. Why Build a Global Network? A global network of satellite tracking stations can provide unparalleled coverage and accuracy in monitoring satellites. By pooling resources and expertise, makers around the world can create a robust and reliable system that benefits everyone. How Does it Work? Station Setup: Makers set up satellite tracking stations in their locations, equipped with antennas, receivers, and computers. Data Collection: Each station collects data on passing satellites, including position, velocity, and other metrics. Data Sharing: Stations share collected data with a central server, which aggregates and analyzes the information. Key Components Antenna: A directional antenna to detect and track satellite signals. Receiver: A radio receiver to decode and process the satellite signals. Computer: A computer to run tracking software, collect data, and transmit it to the central server. Benefits for Makers Hands-on Experience: Building and operating a satellite tracking station provides hands-on experience with space technology. Community Engagement: Collaboration with other makers worldwide fosters a sense of community and shared achievement. Contribution to Science: Makers contribute to the advancement of satellite research and space weather forecasting. Getting Started To join the global satellite tracking network, makers can start by: Learning about Satellite Tracking: Study the basics of satellite tracking and the components required. Joining Online Communities: Participate in online forums and social media groups dedicated to satellite tracking and maker projects. Setting Up a Station: Build or acquire the necessary equipment and set up a satellite tracking station. Q1: What is the purpose of building a global satellite tracking network with makers? A1: The purpose is to create a decentralized and open-source network that allows individuals to track satellites in real-time, promoting education, research, and innovation in space technology. Q2: What kind of makers are involved in this project? A2: Makers from diverse backgrounds, including amateur radio operators, DIY electronics enthusiasts, students, researchers, and space enthusiasts, can participate in building the network. Q3: What type of satellites will be tracked by this network? A3: The network aims to track a variety of satellites, including amateur radio satellites, weather satellites, Earth observation satellites, and other low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. Q4: How will the satellite tracking data be shared? A4: The tracking data will be shared openly through online platforms, APIs, and social media channels, allowing anyone to access and utilize the information. Q5: What are the benefits of building a global satellite tracking network? A5: The network will provide valuable insights into satellite behavior, improve weather forecasting, enable real-time monitoring of space debris, and promote STEM education. Q6: How can individuals contribute to the project? A6: Individuals can contribute by building and deploying their own satellite tracking stations, developing software for data analysis and visualization, or participating in online communities to share knowledge and expertise. Q7: What kind of hardware is required to build a satellite tracking station? A7: A basic setup may include an antenna, a receiver, a computer or single-board computer (e.g., Raspberry Pi), and software for signal processing and data analysis. Q8: How will the network ensure data accuracy and reliability? A8: The network will implement quality control measures, such as data validation algorithms, calibration procedures, and peer review processes, to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the tracking data. Q9: Can this project be used for commercial purposes? A9: While the primary focus is on education and research, the network's open-source nature allows for potential commercial applications, such as providing satellite tracking services or developing new technologies. Q10: How will the project be sustained in the long term? A10: The project aims to become self-sustaining through community engagement, crowdfunding initiatives, and potential partnerships with organizations or companies interested in space technology. Rank Pioneers/Companies Description 1 SatNOGS A global network of satellite tracking stations built by makers and enthusiasts, providing open-source software and hardware designs. 2 AMSAT A non-profit organization dedicated to promoting amateur radio satellite communication, with a strong focus on maker and DIY communities. 3 Kerbal Network A community-driven project aiming to create a global satellite tracking network, with a focus on open-source hardware and software. 4 CubeSat A popular maker-friendly satellite platform, providing affordable and accessible space technology for research, education, and innovation. 5 Planetary Resources A company pioneering the development of satellite-based asteroid prospecting and resource utilization, with a strong focus on maker and DIY communities. 6 Rock Block A company providing affordable and accessible satellite communication solutions for makers, researchers, and innovators. 7 Helium A company building a decentralized wireless network using low-cost satellites, with a strong focus on maker and DIY communities. 8 FOSSA Systems A company providing open-source satellite tracking and communication solutions for makers, researchers, and innovators. 9 Libre Space Foundation A non-profit organization promoting open-source space exploration, with a focus on maker-friendly satellite platforms and global tracking networks. 10 Ursa Major Tech A company providing affordable and accessible satellite-based IoT solutions for makers, researchers, and innovators. Section Description Overview The goal of this project is to create a global satellite tracking network using maker technology. This network will allow users to track satellites in real-time, providing valuable data for research, education, and hobbyist applications. Hardware Components   Antenna System A high-gain antenna system will be used to receive satellite signals. This system will consist of a parabolic dish or Yagi antenna, depending on the frequency range and required gain.   Low Noise Amplifier (LNA) A low noise amplifier will be used to amplify the received satellite signal, improving signal-to-noise ratio and allowing for more accurate tracking.   Software Defined Radio (SDR) An SDR will be used to process the amplified satellite signal, providing a digital representation of the signal that can be analyzed using software.   Single-Board Computer A single-board computer (e.g. Raspberry Pi) will be used to run tracking software, control the SDR and LNA, and communicate with the network. Software Components   Tracking Software Custom tracking software will be developed to analyze the digital signal from the SDR and determine the satellite's position, velocity, and other relevant data.   Network Protocol A network protocol (e.g. TCP/IP) will be used to transmit tracking data between nodes in the network, allowing for real-time sharing of satellite position information. Network Architecture   Distributed Network The satellite tracking network will be a distributed system, consisting of multiple nodes located around the world. Each node will collect and transmit tracking data to a central server.   Central Server A central server will collect and aggregate tracking data from all nodes in the network, providing a unified view of satellite positions and velocities. Technical Challenges   Satellite Signal Acquisition The system must be able to acquire and track the satellite signal in real-time, despite variations in signal strength and noise.   Doppler Shift Compensation The system must compensate for Doppler shift caused by the relative motion between the satellite and the tracking station.   Network Synchronization The nodes in the network must be synchronized to ensure accurate timing and correlation of tracking data.