ComTrack-TLE
Inclined Orbit Tracking Software

ComTrack-TLE enables a CTI-850-controlled antenna to track a satellite operating in an inclined orbit by referring to "Two-Line Element" data published for each satellite.   ComTrack-TLE incorporates all of the standard features of the CTI-850 CONTROL software, plus tracking.  ComTrack-TLE runs directly on the CTI-850, replacing CONTROL.

ComTrack-TLE is intended for use with a dual-axis satellite antenna.  The antenna must be capable of acquiring an inclined-orbit satellite throughout its entire range of travel.  The TLE tracking method does not require AGC voltage from a receiver and therefore functions independently of the type of receivers in use.  It can be used in uplink-only situations or for tracking of non-geosynchronous satellites.

 ComTrack-TLE ---- Typical Electrical Connections

To the operator, a  CTI-850 Controller running the ComTrack-TLE software operates normally.  Internally, if a non-inclined orbit satellite preset position is chosen, the antenna is moved as usual.  If an inclined orbit satellite preset position is chosen, the precise location of the satellite is calculated using the TLE data and the antenna is moved according to the results of the calculation.

ComTrack-TLE can be used in conjunction with ComSched for DOS or ComSched for
Windows^â, CTI's Satellite Antenna Scheduling and Remote Control software package.  When ComSched issues a command ordering the CTI-850 Controller to go to the preset position of an inclined orbit satellite, the antenna moves to the satellite’s predicted position as calculated by the ComTrack-TLE program.

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