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Satellites

Hamtrax tracks amateur radio satellites in real time, showing you where they are right now and when the next pass is coming over your location. Whether you're chasing grid squares on FM birds or working linear transponder satellites on SSB and CW, the Activity tab has what you need.

[SCREENSHOT: Satellite tracking view showing orbital paths on the map with a pass prediction popup]

Viewing Satellite Positions​

  1. Open the Activity tab and select Satellites from the activity mode dropdown.
  2. Popular amateur satellites appear on the map with their current positions and ground track paths showing where they've been and where they're headed.
  3. Tap any satellite to open the Satellite Detail popup.

The map updates satellite positions in real time as they orbit, so you can watch them move across the sky.

Pass Predictions​

For each satellite, Hamtrax calculates upcoming passes based on your location. A pass prediction includes:

  • AOS (Acquisition of Signal) -- When the satellite rises above your horizon
  • LOS (Loss of Signal) -- When it sets below the horizon
  • Max elevation -- The highest point in the sky the satellite will reach during the pass (higher is better for signal strength)
  • Azimuth -- The compass direction for AOS and LOS
  • Duration -- How long the pass lasts
tip

Passes with a max elevation above 30 degrees are generally the best for making contacts. Low-elevation passes have weaker signals and shorter windows.

Satellite Details​

Tap any satellite to see its technical details:

  • Name and NORAD ID
  • Uplink frequency -- The frequency you transmit on
  • Downlink frequency -- The frequency you listen on
  • Mode -- FM, SSB/CW (linear transponder), or digital
  • Status -- Whether the satellite is currently operational
info

Most FM satellites like SO-50 and ISS use a single uplink and downlink frequency. Linear transponder satellites like RS-44 use a frequency range (passband) where you can tune across the transponder.

Prerequisites​

For accurate pass predictions, Hamtrax needs your location:

  • Enable location services, or
  • Set your grid square in Settings > Preferences

Without a location, you'll still see satellite positions on the map, but pass predictions won't be available.

warning

Satellite frequencies can change when satellite operators update transponder configurations. Hamtrax keeps its catalog current, but always verify frequencies before a planned satellite operation.