An elegant Python library for computing positions of stars, planets, and satellites in Earth orbit, based on modern astronomical algorithms and ephemerides.
Skyfield
- Python
- Aerospace, Mathematics, Simulation
- Astrophysics, Environmental Engineering, Environmental Impact, Space, User experience (UX)
Features:
- Astronomical position calculation (planets,stars,Moon,Sun,satellites),ephemeris loading (JPL DE series,TLEs for satellites),coordinate transformations (alt/az,RA/Dec,galactic),timescale conversions (UTC,UT1,TT,TAI),precession,nutation,aberration,topocentric and geocentric positions,event finding (rise,set,transit,conjunctions)
Pricing:
- Free
- Accurate and modern astronomical calculations, well-documented with clear examples, easy to use API, handles time zones and complex astronomical phenomena correctly, actively maintained.
- Primarily focused on positional astronomy (not astrophysics like spectra or stellar evolution), requires downloading ephemeris files for high accuracy, understanding of astronomical coordinate systems and time is beneficial.
Best for:
- Astronomers, astrophysicists, satellite trackers, and hobbyists needing to compute precise positions of celestial objects and satellites.