Tracking satellites used to require punching TLEs into a calculator. Today, dozens of free tools deliver real-time pass predictions to your phone. Here are the best.
Web-Based Trackers
- OrbitalIQ Live Tracker — our own interactive global view (try it).
- Heavens-Above — the gold standard for visual pass predictions.
- N2YO — comprehensive catalog with detailed orbit info.
- Celestrak — the canonical TLE source used by every other tool.
Mobile Apps
- ISS Detector — clean, beginner-friendly notifications.
- SkyView — point your phone and see overlays in AR.
- GPredict (desktop) — open-source, used by ham operators worldwide.
Ham Radio
If you want to talk through satellites, look at the AMSAT FOX-1 series and the ARISS school program for ISS contacts. Combine with a Yagi antenna and an SDR receiver for under $200.
Pro / Commercial
LeoLabs, Kratos and ExoAnalytic provide paid space situational awareness for operators. Most consumers never need them.
Once you've got your tools, learn how to identify what you see.