A new efficient algorithm for tracking LEO satellites

The methods of tracking Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites can be grouped into two different categories: “signal-based” and “program-based” methods. In this paper, we employ a new program-based tracking method to trace satellites, using Two Line orbital Elements (TLE). Using TLE is a simple and well-known method for tracking satellites; however, this paper presents a new algorithm for tracking satellites, based on TLE files. This algorithm, uses an available TLE file to estimate the satellite´s position and to update the orbital elements, for any desired time that we are interested in tracing the satellite. The results show that the algorithm is accurate and reliable.