Orbital Satellite Tracker

Understanding Orbital Mechanics & Satellite Tracking

In the modern era, thousands of artificial satellites orbit our planet, facilitating everything from global communication and weather forecasting to scientific research and military surveillance. This Satellite Tracker provides a real-time visualization of these orbital paths, utilizing simplified Keplerian elements to propagate satellite positions.

How Satellites Stay in Orbit

A satellite maintains its orbit by balancing two factors: its velocity (speed) and the Earth's gravitational pull. For Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites like the International Space Station (ISS), they must travel at approximately 27,600 km/h (17,150 mph) to ensure that as they fall toward Earth, the Earth curves away beneath them at the same rate. This state of perpetual freefall creates the microgravity environment experienced by astronauts.

The Science of Tracking

Tracking a satellite requires precise knowledge of its orbital parameters, often distributed as Two-Line Elements (TLEs). Key parameters include:

• Inclination: The tilt of the orbit relative to the equator. An inclination of 0° orbits the equator, while 90° passes over the poles.
• Orbital Period: The time it takes to complete one full revolution around the Earth. The ISS orbits roughly every 90 minutes.
• Ground Track: The path the satellite traces over the Earth's surface. Because the Earth rotates underneath the satellite, each orbit shifts westward, allowing the satellite to scan different parts of the globe over time.

Types of Orbits

Different missions require different orbits. Geostationary satellites orbit at 35,786 km altitude, matching Earth's rotation to appear stationary in the sky—ideal for TV broadcasts. In contrast, Polar orbiting satellites scan the entire globe as it rotates beneath them, making them perfect for spy satellites and environmental monitoring.