Active L-Band 1525-1660 MHz Antenna (Set) v2

RTL-SDR Blog Active L-Band 1525-1660 MHz (v2) – RHCP Active Patch Antenna for Inmarsat, Iridium and GPS

The RTL-SDR Blog Active L-Band 1525-1660 MHz antenna (version 2) is a high-performance active patch antenna designed for L-Band satellite signal reception, ideal for advanced SDR applications, satellite monitoring and radio experimentation. Thanks to its frequency coverage from 1525 to 1660 MHz, it allows reception of signals from Inmarsat, Iridium, GPS/GNSS and other compatible satellite systems.

This antenna uses RHCP (Right Hand Circular Polarization), essential for optimal L-Band satellite reception, and integrates a low-noise LNA with SAW filter to significantly improve the signal-to-noise ratio and reduce terrestrial interference.

Compared to the previous version, the V.2 antenna features a larger surface area, providing higher gain, improved reception beam coverage and much easier satellite pointing.

Perfect for SDR users, radio amateurs, researchers and satellite communication enthusiasts.

Main Features

• Frequency coverage: 1525 – 1660 MHz
• Active amplified patch antenna with integrated LNA
• Integrated SAW filter against interference
• RHCP polarization
• Compatible with:
  Inmarsat STD-C / EGC,
  Satellite AERO ACARS,
  Inmarsat Voice Channels,
  Iridium decoding,
  GPS and GNSS experiments.
• Fully weatherproof enclosure for outdoor use
• Bias Tee powered: 3.3V – 5V
• Antenna version: v2

Compatible with:

• RTL-SDR Blog V3 and RTL-SDR Blog V3 USB-C
• Airspy
• HackRF
• SDRplay
• Nooelec
• other SDR receivers with Bias Tee

Package contents

• 1x RHCP Active L-Band Patch Antenna (v2)
• 1x 2-meter RG174 extension cable
• 1x Flexible tripod mount
• 1x Large suction cup mount

Why choose this L-Band antenna?

Compared to common passive antennas, this solution offers:

• Stronger and cleaner signals
• Higher sensitivity
• Reduced RF interference
• Easy installation with no modifications required
• Excellent performance with the most popular SDR software
• A professional, ready-to-use solution for users who want to receive and decode L-Band satellite signals with high performance.

RHCP Active Patch Antenna Installation Guide

The antenna can be easily installed on windows, smooth surfaces, branches, poles or outdoor supports thanks to the included accessories. For best performance, it is recommended to tilt the patch toward the satellite and use at least 1 meter of coaxial cable between the antenna and SDR receiver, avoiding placing the dongle too close to the patch to reduce possible interference. No additional filters or amplifiers are required.

Proper orientation significantly improves gain and signal quality. In areas with strong cellular interference, it may be useful to install the patch closer to the ground or use buildings as natural shielding. The included suction cup allows quick mounting on glass and smooth surfaces: it is recommended to clean surfaces thoroughly before installation.

How to power the Active L-Band antenna?

This patch antenna requires enabling the Bias Tee function (3.3V – 5V) through the SDR software being used in order to power the integrated LNA. Once the Bias Tee is enabled in the software, simply connect the antenna and start receiving signals immediately.

The following images show the patch antenna while receiving various satellite signals, including AERO, STD-C, Iridium and GPS.

Inmarsat Reception

Inmarsat Reception

Airspy Showing Patch Bandwidth

GPS hump visible

Antenna V1 mounting example

RTL-SDR Blog name: RTL-SDR Blog Active L-Band 1525 – 1660 Inmarsat to Iridium Patch Antenna Set