Tracking satellites from the comfort of your phone is easier than you imagine. With suitable applications, you will be able to know the location of the main satellites that orbit the Earth. In addition, you can monitor their activity and, in some cases, predict their future movements.
These tools offer fascinating features, from interactive space maps to receiving notifications when a satellite is passing over your location. If you are interested in technological advances in space, discovering these applications will open up a new dimension of exploration.
Next, at Insiderbits, we present you with the three best apps to track satellites and a complete guide on how to get the most out of them. Get ready to take your space experience to the next level!
The three best applications to track satellites on your mobile
Various applications allow you to track and monitor the location of the satellites that orbit our planet. Some offer more advanced features than others, but all will give you an exciting window into outer space. Below, we present the three leading applications in this field.
Satellite Tracker by Star Walk
Satellite Tracker by Star Walk is, without a doubt, one of the most complete tools for tracking satellites from your smartphone. With a database of more than 19,000 satellites, this application locates and tracks all these objects in orbit. Moreover, it categorizes them into nine categories.
One of the main functions of the Satellite Tracker is to notify you when satellites pass over your location. This way, you will always catch every sighting. In addition, you can create a personalized list of the satellites that interest you most and select between three different viewing modes.
The free version allows you to track only the International Space Station (ISS). If you purchase the paid subscription, you will get unlimited access to all other satellites in the database. This way, you can take full advantage of Satellite Tracker’s advanced features and stay updated with space activity.
4.4/5
Look4Sat: Satellite Tracker
Look4Sat is another excellent application for tracking satellites from your mobile phone. Thanks to its enormous database, you can access information on more than 5,000 active satellites orbiting the Earth. You can search by the NORAD Number and the satellite’s name.
One of Look4Sat’s main strengths is the precision of its calculations on satellite positions and paths. These calculations are based on your exact location. The app allows you to set your observing position using your device’s GPS data to achieve this.
Look4Sat offers a seamless and ad-free user experience. Predicts the positions and paths of satellites up to a week in advance. It also provides a list of active and upcoming steps and shows the progress of the current step.
Additionally, this satellite application allows you to import custom TLE data through files with TXT or TLE extensions. It gives you much flexibility to monitor your satellites of interest closely. We should note that Look4Sat performs all calculations offline, so it should be updated weekly.
4/5
Satellite Finder (Dish Pointer)
Satellite Finder (Dish Pointer) It is a truly versatile application that goes beyond simple satellite tracking. This tool is optimized to help you accurately find and point your satellite dish toward satellites near your location.
The application has an extensive database with hundreds of satellites worldwide. With it, you can quickly identify the satellites relevant to your location and correctly position your Dish antenna to tune into them.
One of Satellite Finder’s standout features is its augmented reality (AR) view. This function allows you to view the satellites’ exact position in the sky, which significantly facilitates aligning your antenna. Point your camera towards the sky; the app will guide you to the correct angle and direction.
Additionally, Satellite Finder has tools such as a digital spirit level, inclinometer, and signal meter. These will help you precisely adjust the tilt and orientation of your satellite dish. You can even receive vibration alerts when the app detects you have reached the optimal position.
4.2/5
How satellite tracking apps can improve your experience
Having satellite tracking apps on your mobile phone can enrich your experience in a variety of ways:
- Astronomical observation: These apps allow you to identify and track the different satellites that cross the sky. It adds excitement and depth to your night sky observations. You can anticipate and enjoy the passages of prominent satellites and even the International Space Station.
- Space technology hobby: They are ideal for fans of space exploration and related technological advances. Updated information on satellites in orbit will keep you updated with the latest news. You can monitor the launch of new satellites and follow their activity.
- Use of satellite dishes: For those who use Dish antennas to receive satellite signals, apps like Satellite Finder (Dish Pointer) are invaluable. These tools will guide you in correctly pointing your antenna at the desired satellite.
- Education and outreach: These applications make sharing the fascinating world of satellites with family and friends easier. You can give detailed explanations, show the location of satellites, and even make predictions about their next steps.
- Practical applications: Some apps offer valuable functions, such as receiving alerts when a satellite passes over your location. It may be especially relevant for those working with satellite-dependent technologies like GPS or communications.
Having applications to track satellites on your mobile device is helpful in many circumstances.
Tips to make the most of satellite tracking apps
To get the most out of satellite tracking apps on your phone, we recommend keeping these tips in mind:
- Set your location accurately: Make sure the app can access your area through GPS. It will allow calculations and predictions to be as accurate as possible.
- Explore customization options: Many apps allow you to create personalized lists of the satellites that interest you most. Take advantage of this feature to track your favorite space objects in more detail.
- Activate notifications: Remember to activate alerts and notifications about the satellites’ next steps concerning your location. This way, you’ll never miss a notable sighting.
- Get familiar with the different views: Some apps offer multiple display modes, such as maps, sky views, or even augmented reality. Experiment with them to find the one that best suits your needs.
- Keep TLE data current: If your app allows it, periodically import the latest TLE (Two-Line Element) data for the most up-to-date information on the satellites’ positions.
- Combine with other sources of information: Complement the app with other sources, such as launch reports and news about space activity. It will give you a more complete picture.
Additionally, apps like Satellite Finder offer precision tools for satellite dish alignment. If you need to configure this type of equipment, take advantage of these functions.
Comparison of the main features of the best applications
Below, we show you a comparative table of the primary satellite tracking applications on the market:
| Characteristic | Satellite Tracker by Star Walk | Look4Sat: Satellite Tracker | Satellite Finder (Dish Pointer) |
| Satellite database | More than 19,000 | More than 5,000 assets | Hundreds of satellites |
| Satellite categories | Nine categories | N/A | N/A |
| Step notifications | Yeah | Yeah | No |
| Display modes | Balloon, Satellite, Sky | Map, Tracking | Augmented Reality, Level, Clinometer |
| TLE data import | No | Yeah | No |
| Antenna Alignment Features | No | No | Yeah |
| Free version | Limited to the ISS | Complete | Complete |
| Subscription model | Unlimited access | No | No |
| Platform | iOS, Android | Android | Android, iOS |
This table summarizes the main differentiating characteristics of each of the three applications. This comparison will help you evaluate and select the satellite application that you need on your smartphone.
Take your space experience to the next level with these satellite-tracking apps
Now that you know the main applications for tracking satellites, it is time to immerse yourself in the fascinating world of space exploration. These tools will give you a new perspective on the universe around us. Besides, they let you closely follow the activity of objects in orbit. Download them now and prepare to take your space experience to the next level!
Do you want to know more about the latest trends and advances in the tracking world? We recommend you read our article on Insiderbits: Enjoy the best of Flighty: Live flight tracking.
