AstroSDR
The AstroSDR, or ASDR, is a Software Defined Radio that enables the experiments conducted by CatSat. The ASDR receives and processes the HF signals detected by the WSPR antenna and the images captured by the HD Cam, converts the data into packets, and produces the signal to be transmitted back to Earth.
The AstroSDR is provided by Rincon Research Corporation.
HF Upconverter
The HF Upconverter converts high-frequency radio signals to very high-frequency radio signals. CatSat receives signals in the HF radio band, between 5 and 30 MHz. However, the AstroSDR does not work with signals at this frequency. This board receives those HF signals and converts them into VHF band signals, between 105 and 130 MHz, which the AstroSDR can work with. The board also amplifies the signal.
The HF Upconverter also has more independent functions on the same board. The board regulates the voltage provided to the Microwave Upconverter and acts as a relay, choosing whether the inflatable antenna or the 10 GHz patch antenna acts as the transmitting antenna
Microwave Upconverter
The Microwave Upconverter converts the 2.47 GHz radio signals generated by the AstroSDR to 10.47 GHz, which is the frequency used by the inflatable and patch antennas. This allows information to be transmitted from CatSat back to Earth.
The Microwave Upconverter is a commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) component made by Kuhne Electronics.
