Starshine Tracker

The Project Starshine app is an iOS based tool for logging visual observation data of Starshine 4 and other visible satellites such as the International Space Station. With advancements in mobile-device gyroscope and magnetometer technology, iPhones and iPads now have the ability to provide reasonably accurate elevation and azimuth data. Coupled with precise geolocation and GPS timing, these devices are ideal for the collection of data used to solve for the orbital elements of satellites from observation-only data.

Once the satellite pass is complete, Starshine Tracker allows you to review your observation data and see how accurate you were at collecting your data. Additionally, you can upload your observation data into a shared repository of other observations from around the world. While the device shares your location as a critical data point in solving orbital parameters, your upload is sent anonymously and can not be traced back to you or your Apple account.