OnAirIoT & sensors · Experimental
Decode Meshtastic with an SDR
OnAir receives Meshtastic. Meshtastic LoRa mesh messages, positions and telemetry (868 and 915 MHz bands).
What Meshtastic is
Meshtastic is an open LoRa mesh network for off-grid text messaging between small battery-powered nodes.
Frequencies and where it is used
Meshtastic and MeshCore (LoRa).
In OnAir the tuning shortcut is LoRa mesh, 869.525 MHz; you can enter any frequency your radio reaches.
What OnAir shows for Meshtastic
Nodes, map and chat.
This receiver is built from the published specification and checked end to end on simulated signals. It has had little or no testing on real transmissions yet, so reports and recordings on Discord are welcome.
Which radio you need
Any radio that tunes this range works. An RTL-SDR covers roughly 24 MHz to 1.7 GHz, and every other radio in the radio guide reaches it too. Antenna height and a clear view of the transmitter matter most.
Questions about Meshtastic
Can I decode Meshtastic with an RTL-SDR?
Usually yes for narrowband signals, as an RTL-SDR tunes roughly 24 MHz to 1.7 GHz at up to about 2.4 Msps. Wide signals such as TV channels need a faster radio, and OnAir says next to the source what the selected radio can do.
Is it legal to receive Meshtastic?
This mode is passive. It only receives, never connects, pairs or joins networks, and never decrypts payloads. Check the rules where you live.
Can I try Meshtastic in OnAir without a radio?
Yes. Most modes include a built-in synthetic test signal, so you can open the screen and try the controls before you own a radio.
Try it without a radio
OnAir includes built-in synthetic test signals for most modes, so you can open this screen, see the layout and try the controls before you own a radio. The Tour button walks you through the app.