Another interest of mine is to decode the NOAA satellite APT transmissions. Tune in around 137.1 to 137.9MHz (Wide FM) at specific times of the day to hear these strange signals. Basically, only NOAA15, 18 and 19 are currently operational. Using free software from the internet, you can decode these signals into great pictures. It can also be used to give you a heads-up on the weather coming your way. I personally use WXtoIMG decoding software. You may find your own favourite. Your receiver must be capable of receiving FM at about 40KHz bandwidth to get a proper decode. I find the best way to do this is to use a RTL-SDR dongle and SDR radio program, but it can be done with any FM receiver.
You will also need an antenna that specifically receives APT transmissions. This antenna which I built many years ago is still going strong at the bottom of my garden. It is a QFH (Quadra Filar Helix). It is designed to receive hellically polarised signals like the ones from the satellites. It also doubles as an excellent scanner antenna.
Another interest of mine is to decode the NOAA satellite APT transmissions. Tune in around 137.1 to 137.9MHz (Wide FM) at specific times of the day to hear these strange signals. Basically, only NOAA15, 18 and 19 are currently operational. Using free software from the internet, you can decode these signals into great pictures. It can also be used to give you a heads-up on the weather coming your way. I personally use WXtoIMG decoding software. You may find your own favourite. Your receiver must be capable of receiving FM at about 40KHz bandwidth to get a proper decode. I find the best way to do this is to use a RTL-SDR dongle and SDR radio program, but it can be done with any FM receiver.
You will also need an antenna that specifically receives APT transmissions. This antenna which I built many years ago is still going strong at the bottom of my garden. It is a QFH (Quadra Filar Helix). It is designed to receive hellically polarised signals like the ones from the satellites. It also doubles as an excellent scanner antenna.
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