METEOR M2-X Satellite Downlink Project Demonstration

Why It Matters

It proves that affordable, DIY hardware can democratize access to real‑time satellite imagery, empowering students and hobbyists to participate directly in space‑based observation and data analysis.

Key Takeaways

• DIY ground station built for under $50 captures Meteor M2 imagery
• V-dipole antenna uses 52 cm coat‑hanger elements resonating at 137.5 MHz
• RG58 coax matches 50 Ω impedance, minimizing signal reflections
• Successful 10‑minute pass decoded LRPT images of eastern US
• Project demonstrates accessible satellite communication for students and hobbyists

Summary

The video showcases a Georgia Tech student project that built a sub‑$50 DIY ground station to receive real‑time low‑rate picture transmission (LRPT) from the Meteor‑M2 weather satellites orbiting at roughly 800 km. By repurposing metal coat‑hangers into a V‑dipole antenna tuned to 137.5 MHz and coupling it with a 50‑Ω RG58 coax, the team proved that sophisticated satellite downlinks can be achieved with everyday components.

Key technical steps included cutting each dipole element to 52 cm for resonance, mounting them at a 120° angle on a 3‑D‑printed PLA base, and verifying signal integrity with local FM stations using SDR++. After tracking a high‑elevation pass over metro Atlanta, the antenna captured the characteristic 137.9 MHz hump, recording a ten‑minute raw data stream that was later processed offline.

The recorded waveform was fed into SATdump’s LRPT72K decoder, which reconstructed clear images of the eastern United States, complete with cloud formations, coastlines, and GPS‑aligned borders. The presenters highlighted the hands‑on learning experience, noting how textbook antenna theory translated into a functional space‑based imaging system.

This demonstration underscores the feasibility of low‑cost, student‑led satellite reception, opening pathways for educational labs, citizen‑science initiatives, and broader public engagement with space data without requiring expensive, specialized equipment.

Original Description

Zach Evans and Will Sasadu demonstrate the METEOR M2-X Satellite Downlink project that won the Best Documentation Award at the Innovate ECE Ultimate Thread Competition.