Satellite Tracker API — Track Satellite Data in Real-time
Did you know that Aviation Edge provides one other type of data other than aviation? Our passion for space pioneers like SpaceX, ISS, NASA, Virgin and what countries have achieved with their satellite action led us to build the Satellite Tracker API. This is a JSON REST API that provides real-time position data + passive, general information on satellites and orbiting objects around the Earth. It is a pretty cool tool to track satellites per company, country, year, manufacturer, NORAD ID and other details. Let’s talk about it more!
The Satellite Tracker API focuses on both satellite data and satellite position data. Here’s the list of details provided for each item in the API output:
- Satellite Code: NORAD ID code and international designator code. NORAD IDs are assigned by the North American Aerospace Defense Command organization for all man-made objects in Earth’s orbit. These are also called Satellite Catalog Numbers or USSPAACECOM object numbers.
- Launch Date and Year: This is the launch date of the satellite in YYYY-MM-DD format. Launch year is also available as “LaunchYear”: YYYYY if you want to filter the satellites based on this information.
- Full satellite name: For example, “THOR ABLESTAR DEB”. (An American expendable launch system operated in the 1960s but still has a special place in my heart due to such a kickass name).
- Launch number and launch part
- Position: Real-time orbital apogee, perigee and period Altitude, latitude, and longitude values + Orbit and right ascension values.
The position data can be a bit tricky to visualize if you are not very familiar with satellites. Please see below the example output to help.
- ECI: Earth-centered inertial coordinates
- Classification
- TLE: Two-line Element Set (for more information on TLEs, you may visit our article below)
Real-time Satellite Data — What Does It Look Like?
Developer Information
We worked towards adding as many details as possible to the satellite data because the use fields are endless from building virtual maps and satellite tracking apps to making charts and academic research. We wanted to answer any and all requirements of our clients and provide them with strong data for strong projects. Below is an example input to see what the data looks like so you can start visualizing what your project will look like by integrating the Satellite Tracker API.
The satellite data is provided via a JSON REST API with response rates of around 0.3 ms. The API is compatible with all major SDKs, so the integration is pretty developer-friendly.
Track ISS, SpaceX Starlink Satellite Data, and Others via Satellite Tracker API
ISS and SpaceX satellites are some of the absolute client favorites to track and this is not very surprising. These leading space pioneers continue to draw our attention and attract people’s curiosity with everything they are doing in the aerospace industry. The demand for B2C platforms where users can view information on these and track objects is also increasing. Just by taking a look at the Apple Store and Google Play Store, there are many tracking apps that have the potential to basically print money — but only if they are powered by the correct data provider *ahem*.
Tip: The real-time feature of the API is useful to keep track of newly launched satellites and objects as well. By integrating the API, you can build 3D models and visual maps that represent the movements of satellites around the Earth. For example, ISS and SpaceX Starlink tracking apps are a favorite and it is perfectly possible to build one with our API. Feel free to test the data with the discounted trial month advantages and start a few draft projects. Let the data inspire you!
Satellite Tracking API — Filters and Input
When an API with this many details is in question, filters matter. The API should be able to return you the exact satellites you want it to return without you or your users having to read through the output to see what you are looking for.
Tip: It is possible to get all satellite and orbiting object data with a single API call. That’s right, no matter how many items are in the response, you can request them all by consuming only 1 API call of your monthly limit. Since the data is real-time and is constantly updated, you would have to make a new API call to get the latest updated data, though.
Find out input and possible filters for the Satellite Tracking API on our full documentation or the API’s GitHub repo below:
Getting Started — Where to Get an API Key for the Satellite Tracking API?
Feeling inspired already? Getting started is super easy by creating an API subscription here. Your API key and access to the data will remain active for as long as your subscription is. Simply purchase a key within a minute above and your API key with your dashboard login information will be automatically sent to your email. No further authorization is required. Upgrade, downgrade or cancel your monthly plan anytime with no commitments.
Have anything else in mind? Contact us about anything and our team will get back to you.
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