Satscape 'Classic' Version
What is the Classic version?
In 1997 I developed a Satellite tracking program for Windows, it was written using Microsoft's Visual Basic 6, which is old and buggy by todays standards, so this classic version of Satscape is still available but its recommended you update to Satscape for Java, unless of course a feature in Classic Satscape is not available in the Java version, such as Rotor and Radio control. The Classic version is only available for the Windows Operating system, so you won't be able to run it in Linux or Mac OS, even using emulation software!
What does Satscape do?
There are about 8000+
satellites in
orbit, a lot of these are just junk and debris such as discarded rocket
bodies, but quite a few are working Satellites.
Their positions can be calculated very accurately using pure maths.
Satscape will present their positions in a nice graphical way. Passes
over your part of the world can be predicted weeks in advance in a
matter of seconds. You don't have to use or have access to the
satellites, as it will even predict when the 150 'Brightest' satellites
pass over, so you can SEE them.
Satscape can track 100's of satellites simultaneously, with various
graphically rich Map Views with ground tracks and footprints, an
Horizon view, tabular list and very impressive 3D view. It's highly
graphical, and has optional speech to announce satellites as they come
into range. Tracking Data known as "Keplerian Elements" are used to
work out their positions. Updating the Keplerian elements couldn't be
easier, just one click from the menu, and it will connect via your
Internet connection, and update them, making Satscape one of the
easiest and most up-to-date Satellite Tracking programs available.
The Majority of people using Satscape are radio amateurs, who use a growing array of amateur satellites to talk to each other over thousands of miles, the satellites are not fixed in the sky, they pass over a few times per day, so to use them, you need to know when they are about to pass over. That is the purpose of satscape. Also, if you're interested in receiving weather satellite images, direct from the satellite, Satscape will tell you when to tune in, receiving these images is free, although it may require a free licence in some countries, then you just need a radio capable of reciving the 137 Mhz signal, if you want to know more, go to this web site
Also, amateur astronomers and UFO enthusiasts can use Satscape to extend their hobby by being able to identify satellites as they pass over during sunset and sunrise, where the satellite appears to be a fast moving star. The irridium satellites are particularly spectacular to see.
So, if you want to use the 'classic' version instead of the new Java version, go to the download page.