Datasets¶
The datasets module in Brahe provides easy access to common datasources used in astrodynamics, space mission analysis, and research. This includes ephemeris data for Earth-orbiting satellites and locations of ground stations.
Available Datasets¶
Satellite Ephemeris¶
- CelesTrak: Two-Line Element (TLE) sets for thousands of Earth-orbiting satellites
- Free access, no registration required
- Organized by satellite groups (GNSS, communications, Earth observation, etc.)
- Updated multiple times daily
- See CelesTrak documentation for details
Groundstation Networks¶
- Groundstation Datasets: Commercial ground station locations and metadata
- Six major provider networks (Atlas, AWS, KSAT, Leaf, SSC, Viasat)
- Embedded data (no external files required)
- Geographic coordinates and frequency band information
- See Groundstation documentation for details
Use Cases¶
Satellite Tracking: Download current TLE data for satellites of interest and propagate their orbits
Coverage Analysis: Evaluate ground network coverage for satellite missions
Mission Planning: Assess communication opportunities using real groundstation networks
Research: Access historical or current ephemeris for analysis and validation
Data Philosophy¶
Brahe's datasets module aims to:
- Reduce friction: Provide easy access to commonly needed data
- No surprises: Data sources are clearly documented with known limitations
- Offline capable: Prefer embedded data when feasible (groundstations)
- Respect providers: Follow best practices and rate limiting (CelesTrak)
- Stay current: Update data sources as the ecosystem evolves