ISS SSTV Images

I am a big fan of the ISS SSTV program and whenever there is SSTV images been broadcast then I am on it straight away to download them. I have created a video on YouTube (click here) which shows all the software in action and images been downloaded.  

If you want to know when the next SSTV images will be broadcast I have found it best to keep a look out on the ARISS Facebook Page as they usually post there.

The below is my current setup for downloading images from the ISS :-

Hardware = Laptop (this is about 8 years old but still works ok)

Antenna = QFH 

Radio = RTL-SDR V3 or V4

There is multiple bits of software you need in order to do this.

Main SDR Radio Software = SDRSharp (With GPredict plugin installed) 

ISS Tracking & Doppler Shift Correction = GPredict 

Image Decoding = MMSSTV 

ISS Voice Contacts

As well as decoding SSTV images from the ISS you can also listen to ISS contacts such as the ARISS program which lets students worldwide experience the excitement of talking directly with crew members of the International Space Station, inspiring them to pursue interests in careers in science, technology, engineering and math, and engaging them with radio science technology through amateur radio.  These contacts are pre arranged and if your lucky you can hear them as thay pass over your country.  Same as the SSTV images it best to keep a look out on the ARISS Facebook Page as they usually post there.

Also if your very lucky you might get to speak to one of the astronaughts aboard the ISS as they do at times use the ham radio equipment in their free time.

The following call signs are available for use on the ISS:

• Russian: RS0ISS

• USA: NA1SS

• European: DP0ISS, OR4ISS, IR0ISS