Raspberry Pi for Space Communication: Learn how to talk to the Skies

Learn satellite communication basics and see a live GCS demo using Raspberry Pi as we set up Anurag University’s first ground station.

Anurag University, Hyderabad

This event provides a live, technically guided demonstration of how to receive real-time data from satellites using Software Defined Radio and a Raspberry Pi platform. Attendees will observe the full setup of a basic ground station and engage with the systems and software used in real-world satellite communications.This initiative is part of Anurag University's larger vision to build practical space technology infrastructure and foster student-led innovation in Space tech, satellite communication and RF systems.

<h3>Agenda and Flow</h3>1. Introduction to Satellites<ul><li>Overview of satellites and their significance in modern systems</li><li>Applications in earth observation, communication, navigation, and research</li></ul>2. Student Satellites<ul><li>Overview of CubeSats, CanSats, and university satellite missions</li><li>Anurag University’s active participation in CanSat and CubeSat projects</li><li>Highlighting the use of Raspberry Pi and similar single-board computers as onboard payload controllers and data processing units in student satellite missions</li></ul>3. Understanding Satellite Orbits<ul><li>Types of orbits: LEO, MEO, GEO, and polar orbits</li><li>How orbit type impacts mission design and communication</li></ul>4. Satellite Communication Principles<ul><li>RF communication fundamentals in space systems</li><li>Link budgets, modulation techniques, and signal paths</li></ul>5. Types of Space Communication<ul><li>Telemetry, telecommand, and payload data</li><li>Downlink vs. uplink, beaconing, and amateur radio roles</li></ul>6. Ground Station Fundamentals<ul><li>Role and components of ground stations: antennas, SDRs, rotators, tracking software</li><li>Introducing Raspberry Pi as a cost-effective computing platform in ground stations</li></ul>7. Live Demonstration<ul><li>SDR basics using RTL-SDR hardware with Raspberry Pi integration</li><li>Reception of FM/AM radio and walkie-talkie signals via Raspberry Pi SDR setup</li><li>Brief introduction to amateur (ham) radio frequencies</li><li>Real-time satellite tracking and signal reception using Raspberry Pi running SDR and tracking software (PiSDR, GPredict, Orbitron)</li><li>Receiving NOAA and OSCAR satellite signals through the Raspberry Pi-based setup</li><li>Discussion on expanding the Raspberry Pi SDR system into a full ground station</li></ul><h3>Learning Outcomes</h3><ul><li>Grasp core concepts of satellite communication and ground station operation</li><li>Experience live satellite signal reception with Raspberry Pi-enabled SDR</li><li>Understand practical applications of Raspberry Pi in space communication systems</li><li>Inspire student-led initiatives in space infrastructure on campus</li></ul><h3>Target Audience</h3><ul><li>Engineering students (Any Department Welcome)</li><li>Space enthusiasts and student project leaders</li><li>Faculty advisors and researchers in embedded, RF, or space domains</li><li>No prior experience required; open to all disciplines</li></ul><h3>Event Details</h3><ul><li>Date: [Insert Date]</li><li>Time: 21 July 2025–10:00 AM – 22 July 2025 9:30 PM </li><li>Venue: Anurag University, ___ (venue to be confirmed)</li><li>Registration: Free </li><li>Organizers: Space Research Center, Anurag University </li></ul>