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WG3K > ANS 12.01.25 02:13l 20 Lines 3846 Bytes #80 (0) @ AMSAT
BID : ANS012.3
Read: GUEST
Subj: 3D-Printed Helicone Antenna Tested for L-Band Weather Satell
Path: IZ3LSV<I3XTY<I0OJJ<EA2RCF<LU9DCE<VK2RZ<KC9UHI<KA1VSC<WG3K
Sent: 250112/0008Z 12302@WG3K.#SMD.MD.USA.NOAM LinBPQ6.0.24
Gabe Emerson, KL1FI, the creator behind the YouTube channel saveitforpartshttps://www.youtube.com/@saveitforparts has unveiled a new video highlighting a 3D-printable helical antenna for receiving weather data from polar-orbiting L-band satellites such as NOAA and Meteor. Designed by a user named t0nitohttps://www.thingiverse.com/t0nito, the 1.7 GHz HRPT Helicone Antenna design is freely available on Thingiverse. Its compact size, straightforward assembly, and effective performance have the potential to make it a hit among amateur radio and satellite enthusiasts. The manual, instructions, and 3D printer files can be accessed at https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6436342.
The video begins with the challenges encountered during the printing process. Early attempts at creating the antenna's helical scaffold were plagued by warping issues in the support legs, resulting in several failed prints. To address this, the original 3D model was modified to include additional center supports, ensuring a stable print. Once the printing phase was complete, the assembly process involved wrapping wire around a two-inch pipe, crafting a reflector from metal window screen, and piecing everything together.
[https://www.amsat.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Saveitforparts-Th...]https://www.amsat.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Saveitforparts-This-3D-Printed-Satellite-Antenna-Is-Fantastic.png
Gabe gives build suggestions for the 1.7 GHz Helicone antenna after completing the initial antenna assembly. [Credit: saveitforpartshttps://www.youtube.com/@saveitforparts]
Testing the completed antenna proved its effectiveness. Using an RTL-SDR receiver and the SatDump software, Gabe successfully received data from the NOAA-18 HRPT satellite. By manually tracking the satellite, clear and detailed weather images, including nighttime thermal and infrared captures, were obtained, showcasing the antenna's capability for high-quality data reception.
Designed with simplicity in mind, the Helicone antenna features a Right-Handed Circular Polarization (RHCP) configuration. Instead of relying on screws, the assembly process used hot glue and materials such as copper wire and sheet metal were sourced from everyday household items. These choices highlight its accessibility and affordability for hobbyists of all experience levels.
[https://www.amsat.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Saveitforparts-He...]https://www.amsat.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Saveitforparts-Helicone-Antenna-vs-Dish-Antenna-Comparison-.png
The Helicone antenna provided similar results when compared with a larger L-band dish antenna. [Credit: saveitforpartshttps://www.youtube.com/@saveitforparts]
A performance comparison with an existing motorized tracking antenna revealed that the Helicone delivered comparable signal strength and image quality. While hand-tracking limited its functionality, its portability and ease of use were standout features. The lightweight design and straightforward assembly make it an ideal choice for amateur satellite enthusiasts looking for a practical and cost-effective solution.
Gabe concludes with praise for the antenna's design and a call to action for viewers to try building one themselves. Future enhancements, such as integrating the Helicone with a motorized tracking system, are already being considered. For now, this detailed guide offers an excellent starting point for satellite hobbyists eager to explore affordable and efficient ways to receive weather data from orbiting satellites. The video titled "This 3D-Printed Satellite Antenna Is Fantastic!" can be found on the saveitforpartshttps://www.youtube.com/@saveitforparts YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/PFQ6UKulxSo.
[ANS thanks Gabe Emerson, KL1FI, and RTL-SDR.com,https://www.rtl-sdr.com/ for the above information]
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