Here it is, the challenge nobody asked for! Can I get L-band satellite data using an umbrella covered in foil tape? It turns out, yes I can!

I was able to download images and weather data from GOES-East, NOAA satellites, and Russian METEOR satellites. I also got a little bit from some other satellites but the signals weren't as good.

Here's the stuff I used (these links give me a commission if you buy stuff through them, but the price to you is the same!)

Umbrella: https://amzn.to/3FEpY6t (any umbrella should work)
Foil tape: https://amzn.to/46RBNCk
(This is actually cheaper at a hardware store, and you'll need 3 rolls!)
Antenna feed: https://amzn.to/46UMvrQ
Software-Defined Radio: https://amzn.to/45Yg8qK
Filter/Amplifier: https://amzn.to/479SjgL
OTG adapter (if using a phone): https://amzn.to/40fCLFX
Antenna cable: https://amzn.to/46QiFVn

SDR++ software: https://www.sdrpp.org/
Satdump: https://www.satdump.org/

I also used Stellarium for aiming, but I still don't really love it.


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