The goal of the PSWS project is to create a geographically distributed, multi-instrument system for ground-based space environment measurements. Data from this node is aggregated into a central HamSCI database for space science research, specifically for analyzing phenomena like Traveling Ionospheric Disturbances (TIDs). Technically, it is a wide-spectrum receiving system that reports WSPR/FST4w and WWV/WWVH and CHU time standard signal Doppler-shift monitoring data in the Digital RF DRF format. This data is useful for studying the behavior of the ionosphere.
WSPRDeamon by Rob Robinette AI6VN, incorporating Phil Karn's ka9q-radio is a Linux-based service designed to operate as a reliable, autonomous appliance for Amateur Radio operators and researchers. Its primary function is to decode WSPR and FST4W spots from one or more Software-Defined Radios (SDRs) and reliably upload them to public databases like wsprnet.org and wspr.rocks. The project emphasizes high reliability, advanced features, and scientific data collection, going beyond the capabilities of applications like WSJT-X.
This repository documents the construction of a RX888 WSPRDaemon SDR Personal Space Weather Station (PSWS) node located in maidenhead grid FN20lb at the QTH of K3DFD in the Fox Chase section of NorthEast Philadelphia, Pa. This PSWS does not incorporate WSPRsonde, a VLF receiver or a Magnetometer.
HamSCI's research & collaboration is coordinated by Dr. Nathaniel Frissell W2NAF at the University of Scranton W3USR and supports a global network of "Citizen Science" monitors. Key partners include: TAPR Tucson Amateur Packet Radio - NJIT Center for Solar-Terrestrial Research - MIT - Haystack Observatory - Case Western Reserve University Case Western Reserve University et.al.
- Hardware Build
- Official HamSCI System Installation & Configuration
- Use of the PSWS & WSPRDaemon
- Links and Information Sources
| Item | Source | Information & Support |
|---|---|---|
| RX888 MkII SDR | OpenSourceLabs | Instructions Linux Drivers |
| GPS Clock | Leo Bodner LBE-1420 | * |
| Filter-Preamp | Turn Island Systems Low pass filter and preamp | 12VDC Linear Power Supply |
| GPS Clock+Thermal kit | TAPR RX-888 Clock kit and thermal pad | Instructions |
| Computer | Beelink | Ubuntu 24.04 Server LTE |
| Integration | High-quality SMA connection cables, hardware | * |
| RX888 SDR Cooling Fan | Noctua NF-A4x10 FLX, Premium Quiet Fan | |
| Antenna | DX Engineering Short Element Active Antenna DXE-RSEAV-1 | 12VDC Linear Power Supply |
Radio Sources
|WWV | CHU - Will go OFFLINE June 2026 | WSPR | FST4W