TRAKSAT is a satellite tracking program for amateur
radio and optical users alike. The program was written by Paul E. Traufler. TRAKSAT
provides all the features you would expect from satellite tracking software and much more.
What makes this program so different is all the options available to the user. TRAKSAT
covers many areas the satellite tracker has required for many years. TRAKSAT
makes it easy for the beginner to see satellites without all the fuss other programs
require. The experienced satellite tracker will like all the power and flexibility TRAKSAT
provides. The program uses "pop-up" and "pull down" style windows for
easy use. The user can select menu options with letters, arrows, or even a mouse.
New Features With Version 4.0
New with this version are two fully rendered 3D earth views with full color Sun/Shadow.
These views are breath taking! TRAKSAT is now a fully protected mode program with no DOS
640K limits! The program uses Extended or Expanded memory and requires only 250K of free
RAM. This is the FOURTH major re-write of the program and is considered the best by all
the trial users.
TRAKSAT comes with a satellite database of over 800 of
the most important satellites ready to use. You can set up different satellite databases
as needed and call them from within the program. There is also a database of over 1970
cities that can be used for tracking stations. The user can edit the tracking station file
and add new stations as they are needed or use one of the pre-configured ones.
TRAKSAT can calculate Doppler shifts and Squint angles
for good satellite radio links. The amateur radio user will find the prediction mode very
useful for scheduling times and passes.
TRAKSAT has several graphics features also. A
satellite ground track can be produced as can a "sky view". The sky view comes
in handy for finding the satellites in the night sky. Orthographic (3-D) views are also
included in TRAKSAT, i.e., see the orbital track about the earth from a
point in space. The sun terminator along with a satellite circle of visibility can be
displayed also. SVGA modes are supported as well a support for PCX files.
Analytical Solution:
The analytical solution will determine rise and set times of the
satellite. This option is VERY FAST and can easily produce a evenings ephemeris of
satellites that will be "seen". No satellite tracking program has even come
close to matching the speed of this option. The user can "define" his or her
favorite satellites and produce a quick look for the nights viewing.
Multi-Tracking:
Up to six satellites can be tracked at one time with this option.
The user can define any of the satellites used in the multi-tracking modes. Graphic or
tabular outputs are available in the multi-tracking modes. A Multi-Station mode is also
available that will allow you to see the satellite pass for more than one station.
Tabular Output:
TRAKSAT can produce tracking information on the screen
or to a file for later use. (Ephemeris generation) This is of great value for predicting
the next satellite pass. Doppler shift for up/down links as well as squint angle
calculations are provided.
Visibility:
The user can select Line Of Sight, Optical, Optical with a range
limit visibility options with just a menu option. The Optical method is for the back yard
astronomer who likes to see those "fast moving stars".
Documentation:
The documentation included with TRAKSAT is both
helpful and extensive (70+ pages). Many areas are covered in the documentation along with
a complete list of sources used in TRAKSAT. A overview of the methods used
in TRAKSAT is included in the document also.
Sample Screens:

(Click on image to enlarge)
Computer Software/Hardware Requirements
IBM or 100% compatible PC, AT, 386, 486, 640K Ram (460K free Ram)
Floppy disk or hard drive (approximately 1.1Meg free), 25x80 Text display, Hercules, CGA,
EGA, VGA, SVGA. DOS version 5.0 or better. A math coprocessor is not required but
strongly recommended.
Any display type for the text mode screens, but VGA preferred for
the graphic modes.
TRAKSAT is being distributed as Shareware. You can
download a trial version from many BBS's or even on packet radio or directly from the
author here at this site.
Pricing:
TRAKSAT is currently available for $25.00 + $4.00 airmail shipping
For technical support or comments about this program, you may contact me
at:
TRAKSAT
c/o Paul E. Traufler
111 Emerald Dr.
Harvest, AL 35749 USA
Phone: (256) 837-0084, Fax: (256) 895-0754
For your convenience we have contracted another company, NorthStar
Solutions, to process any credit card orders you may wish to place with your
Visa,
MasterCard, American Express or Discover card. Please be sure to mention you would like to
order Product #1172 when placing your order:
CREDIT CARD ORDERS ONLY
Product #1172 TRAKSAT ($29.00)
** WEB ORDERS **
http://nstarsolutions.com/821.htm
Just fill out the online order form--fast, easy and secure!
** PHONED ORDERS **
Calls are taken Monday-Friday, 9am-7pm, CST
(800) 699-6395 (U.S. only.)
(785) 539-3731(Outside U.S.)
** FAXED ORDERS **
Available 24 hours.
(785) 539-3743
** E-MAILED ORDERS **
CompuServe: starmail
America Online: starmail
Internet: starmail@nstarsolutions.com
Check, PO's, money orders, or any other order
TRAKSAT
c/o Paul E. Traufler
111 Emerald Dr.
Harvest, AL 35749 USA
Phone: (256) 837-0084, Fax: (256) 895-0754
Mail/Fax Printable Order Form
WEB Order Form