How to Receive NOAA Satellite Images with RTL-SDR

How to Receive NOAA Satellite Images with RTL-SDR, SDRSharp, and WXtoIMG

This tutorial will guide you through the process of receiving and decoding images from NOAA satellites using an RTL-SDR receiver, SDRSharp software, and WXtoIMG.

Prerequisites:

• Computer with Windows operating system
• RTL-SDR dongle (e.g., RTL-SDR Blog R820T2)
• Suitable antenna for reception at 137 MHz. I use a dipole, but there are better options available
• SDRSharp software – Installation guide
• WXtoIMG software – Download
• Software VB-CABLE Virtual Audio Device

Instructions:

1. Install SDRSharp and WXtoIMG:
   • Download and install SDRSharp. Installation guide
   • Download and install WXtoIMG 2.10.11.
   • Install VB-CABLE Virtual Audio Device
2. Connect the RTL-SDR and the antenna:
   • Connect the RTL-SDR dongle to your computer’s USB port.
   • Connect the antenna to the SMA connector on the RTL-SDR dongle.
3. Configure SDRSharp:
   • Open SDRSharp.
   • In the menu bar, select “Source” > “RTL-SDR”.
   • In the “General” tab, set the central frequency to 137 MHz.
   • In the “Gain” tab, adjust the gain to an appropriate level (around 20-30 dB).
   • Click “Start”.
4. Configure WXtoIMG:
   • Open WXtoIMG.
   • Configure the audio and decoding options for NOAA satellites.
   • Install and configure VBCable and adjust audio options in WXtoIMG.
5. Tune to the satellite signal:
   • Use SDRSharp to tune to the NOAA satellite signal frequency.
   • You can find the real-time frequencies of NOAA satellites on sites like N2YO, which also shows when the satellite will be overhead.
   • Once tuned and audible, you should see a black and white image in WXtoIMG starting to appear line by line. When the signal disappears, stop the recording, and the program will automatically process the images.
6. Adjust the image:
   • Use the WXtoIMG tools to adjust contrast, brightness, and other image parameters.
   • Save the image in JPG or PNG format.

Tips:

• The image quality can vary depending on several factors, such as location, time of day, and weather conditions.
• If you have trouble receiving the signal, try using an external antenna or a preamplifier.
• There are various other software and configurations that can be used to decode NOAA satellite images, such as Gqrx and HDSDR.

Additional resources:

• Tutorial on receiving weather satellites with SDR
• How to Work with NOAA Satellites
• List of RTL-SDR compatible software

This tutorial is a starting point for you to begin exploring the fascinating world of satellite image reception. With a bit of practice and patience, you will be able to capture incredible images of the Earth from space!