As a satellite orbits the Earth, the point directly beneath it on the surface is called the
nadir.
The path that point traces over time is called the satellite’s
ground track.
This tool shows that path in real time. It’s useful for:
- Knowing when the ISS or other satellites will pass over your city
- Planning satellite communications or Earth observation
- Understanding why some orbits only cover certain latitudes
The shape is mainly controlled by
inclination (tilt of the orbit):
- 0° = stays over the equator
- 51.6° = like the ISS (covers most populated areas)
- 90° = polar orbit (passes over the poles)