S
About
Orbitrack is a feature-rich satellite and space-object tracking app developed by Southern Stars Group. Available on iOS, Android, and macOS, it allows users to point their device at the sky and instantly identify satellites, the International Space Station, and other orbiting objects using a true augmented reality mode that overlays a simulated star chart on live camera video. The app draws real-time orbital data from two independent sources — n2yo.com and Celestrak — ensuring robust coverage even when one source is incomplete or uses different naming conventions. Each tracked satellite comes with detailed metadata including launch dates, launch sites, operational categories, and countries of origin. Key controls include swipe gestures for blending the AR overlay with the camera feed and for correcting digital compass drift by aligning the chart to a known bright target such as the Moon or a planet. A dedicated Motion button in the toolbar makes activating device motion sensors quick and intuitive. Orbitrack is ideal for amateur astronomers, educators, students, and space enthusiasts who want to visually connect what they see in the night sky with catalogued orbital data. Whether you are trying to spot a Starlink train, follow the ISS, or learn about historic satellites, Orbitrack provides an engaging and informative experience across Apple and Android devices.
Key Features
- True Augmented Reality Mode: Blends live camera video with a simulated sky chart so you can visually identify satellites and space objects in real time.
- Dual Orbital Data Sources: Pulls satellite data from both n2yo.com and Celestrak simultaneously to maximise catalogue completeness and naming accuracy.
- Detailed Satellite Info: Displays launch dates, launch sites, operational categories, and countries of origin for each tracked satellite.
- Compass Alignment Controls: Swipe gestures let you correct compass drift by aligning the simulated chart to a bright real-world target like the Moon or a planet.
- Cross-Platform Support: Available on iOS, Android, and macOS, ensuring a consistent experience across Apple and Google device ecosystems.
Use Cases
- Amateur astronomers identifying satellites passing overhead on a clear night.
- Educators using AR sky view to teach students about orbital mechanics and space history.
- Space enthusiasts tracking Starlink trains, the ISS, or newly launched spacecraft in real time.
- Photographers and videographers planning shots around satellite passes to avoid light trails.
- Hobbyists exploring satellite launch histories and international space programmes through in-app metadata.
Pros
- Genuine AR Overlay: Unlike apps that only react to device tilt, Orbitrack composites the star chart directly onto live camera footage for an immersive experience.
- Redundant Data Sources: Using two orbital data feeds reduces gaps in satellite coverage and ensures more accurate naming.
- Rich Satellite Metadata: Launch history and classification details make the app genuinely educational, not just a pass-over tracker.
Cons
- Compass Accuracy Dependency: Digital compasses in most smartphones drift, requiring manual realignment of the AR overlay for precise identification.
- Paid App: There is no free tier, which may deter casual users who only occasionally want to spot a satellite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What platforms does Orbitrack support?
Orbitrack is available on iOS, Android, and macOS, covering the major mobile and desktop operating systems.
How does the augmented reality mode work?
Orbitrack overlays a simulated sky chart on live video from your device's camera. You can control the blend level by swiping up and down, and correct compass drift by swiping left and right to align the chart with a known object like the Moon.
Where does Orbitrack get its satellite data?
The app combines orbital data from both n2yo.com and Celestrak to ensure comprehensive and accurate satellite listings.
Can I see information about a satellite beyond its current position?
Yes. Tapping a satellite opens a detail view showing its launch date, launch site, category, and country of origin.
Is Orbitrack free?
Orbitrack is a paid app available on the Apple App Store, Google Play, and the macOS App Store. There is no free version.
