Portable Cyberdeck for SDR Satellite and ISS Tracking

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Build a portable, battery-powered cyberdeck capable of receiving and decoding SDR signals from the ISS, weather satellites, and SSTV transmissions. This project uses a Raspberry Pi, RTL-SDR module, a compact display, and a custom 18650 battery circuit housed in a 3D-printed or laser-cut enclosure, running open-source software for satellite tracking and SDR reception.

Intermediate 15 hours $150

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Raspberry Pi by installing Raspberry Pi OS on the microSD card.

2. Connect the RTL-SDR dongle to the Raspberry Pi and verify it is recognized via terminal commands.

3. Install and configure SDR software packages: SDR++, Gpredict for satellite tracking, and QSSTV or RX-SSTV for SSTV decoding.

4. Set up the touchscreen display, install necessary drivers, and configure it as the main display.

5. Assemble the 18650 battery pack with the battery holder and BMS module, connect to boost converter for stable 5V power output.

6. Wire the power system to the Raspberry Pi, ensuring safe battery management and adding a power switch.

7. Test the full system with power from batteries, check that the Raspberry Pi boots and SDR software runs correctly.

8. Design the enclosure using free CAD software (e.g., Fusion 360 or Tinkercad) considering placement for the display, ports, antenna connector, and battery.

9. 3D print or laser cut the enclosure parts, then assemble with screws and mount all components securely inside.

10. Connect the antenna and perform live satellite tracking and SSTV decoding tests outdoors.

11. Optionally, optimize software startup scripts to launch SDR and tracking programs on boot for ease of use.

12. Finalize cable management inside the case and label ports for portable field use.