Setting up a new LEO satellite station and researching tracking software options. Gpredict can track unlimited satellites and display position data in lists, tables, maps, and polar plots, plus predict future passes. SatPC32 displays satellite footprints on world maps and outputs related text data. Orbitron allows tracking of ISS, ham satellites, and provides satellite pass prediction and orbits. I understand Orbitron and Gpredict control rotators but not radios, while SatPC32 can control both radio and rotator. Need seamless integration between tracking software and transceiver via CAT control for automated frequency adjustments. Which combination works best for serious LEO work?

Started with Gpredict and loved the interface, but moved to SatPC32 for full rig control. Orbitron has been around a long time with lots of tutorials, but limited radio integration was a deal-breaker for me.

Gpredict's robust design works well across Linux, BSD, Windows, and Mac OS X, and it's free software under GNU GPL. For contest operations, I need the visual flexibility. SatPC32 is great but Windows-only limits me during portable ops.

Gpredict controls rigs and rotors using Hamlib - this is key for modern transceivers. The radio and antenna rotator control for autonomous tracking works flawlessly with my IC-9700 once properly configured. Much more flexible than proprietary solutions.