§ Project

About Rays Atlas

Rays Atlas provides free, accurate TV signal coverage information to help you cut the cord and enjoy free over-the-air television.

Our Mission

We believe everyone deserves access to free broadcast television. Our mission is to help cord-cutters find the best antenna setup for their location by providing detailed, physics-based signal coverage analysis.

How It Works

Our coverage maps are generated using sophisticated RF propagation modeling that takes into account:

  • Terrain Analysis – We use high-resolution elevation data (SRTM) to model how mountains, hills, and valleys affect signal propagation
  • Tower Data – Official FCC broadcast tower information including location, power output, antenna height, and channel assignments
  • Signal Physics – Terrain-aware knife-edge diffraction modeling to calculate realistic signal strengths at each location
  • Network Affiliations – We track which local stations carry major networks like ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX, and PBS

Data Sources

  • Tower Information – FCC TV Query database (public record)
  • Terrain Data – NASA Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM)
  • ZIP Code Boundaries – US Census Bureau ZCTA shapefiles
  • Network Affiliations – Compiled from public broadcaster information

Accuracy

Our signal predictions are estimates based on terrain and distance. Actual reception can vary due to:

  • Building materials and obstructions
  • Antenna type and placement
  • Weather conditions
  • Local interference sources

For best results, use our recommendations as a starting point and experiment with antenna placement.

Contact

Have questions or feedback? We'd love to hear from you.

Email: hello@raysatlas.com