MAREX-MG SpaceCam 1

MAREX-MG ISS SpaceCam1 Project

14 March 2001
MAREX-MG is pleased to make the first public announcement of the SpaceCam1 Slow Scan TV project!

What is SpaceCam1 ?

SpaceCam1 is a software-based Slow-Scan Television (SSTV) system, developed by MAREX-MG for deployment on the International Space Station. It will be used by future ISS crews for SSTV image communications with amateur radio operators worldwide.

Will I be able to receive images from SpaceCam1?

Yes! SpaceCam1 will transmit and receive images on amateur radio frequencies, using standard SSTV formats. Although SpaceCam1 is capable of operating in several modes, the standard format will be Robot 36. This format offers the best standard compromise between image quality and transmission time.

In addition to two-way "interactive" operation, SpaceCam1 provides the following fully-automatic functions:

Transmission from camera at specified intervals
SSTV beacon
"Slide Show" operation from a set of images stored on the system
SSTV Repeater

What equipment will I need to receive the images?

2-meter (144-148mhz FM) radio receiver with an outdoor antenna
A newer PC with SSTV software, or a dedicated SSTV scan converter
Tracking software (optional, although it helps a lot!)

Please note SpaceCam1 may be moved to a 70cm (440-445mhz) frequency in the future.

What does SpaceCam1 look like?

Here's a picture of the current software:

When will SpaceCam1 be operational?

Although SpaceCam1 has been accepted by ARISS, much work remains to be done before it can be put in operation aboard the ISS. The current tentative plan, is to run the final test sessions in early 2003 and fly late 2003. As the project progresses, we'll update this site with the latest available information.

Here's a link to reduced-size scan of the ARISS acceptance letter

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