No, I cannot explain how to use TLE's to determine rocket position during launch phase. What I can do is run STS-PLUS Version 9517 which has a Shuttle launch simulator (see STSPLUS Doc p 59). Dave Ransom makes it very clear that this model is only good for the Shuttle launched from the Cape and that the prelaunch TLE's and launch time must match. It would be interesting to know more about how his model works. Maybe fancy polynomial substitution for the physics? Stephen SThompson@esiusa.com ---------- From: seesat-l-request To: seesat-L Subject: Re: Launches - directional, a local view Date: Thursday, March 28, 1996 1:19AM On Wed, 27 Mar 1996, Stephen Thompson wrote: > When STS-76 left for Mir the other morning, the 'launch simulation" in > STS-PLUS was spot-on for rise and set times as well as altitude, I recommend > that anyone interested in seeing launches from a great distance use STS-PLUS > to see if a particular launch will be visible from their location. Can you explain how to use TLEs to determine rocket position during launch phase? -- JRespler@InJersey.com or Jay.Respler@bytewise.org Satellite Tracker * Early Typewriter Collector Freehold, New Jersey