High-fidelity orbital mechanics simulation and visualization - Aerospace Engineering Project

This project focuses on the mathematical modeling and 3D visualization of satellite orbits, including ground track projection and orbital state vector analysis.

The goal of this simulator is to model satellite motion using Newtonian physics and Keplerian elements. It provides a comprehensive visual output of how a satellite behaves in different orbital configurations (LEO, MEO, or Elliptical).

• src/: Core Python scripts for orbital propagation and physics engine.
• data/: Configuration files and orbital parameters (TLE/JSON).
• outputs/animations/: 2D and 3D orbital motion videos and GIFs.
• outputs/plots/: Static visualizations including Ground Tracks and 3D trajectories.

1. Orbital Dynamics: Precise 2D animation showing velocity and position changes over time.
2. Ground Track Analysis: Visualization of the satellite's "footprint" on the world map, essential for mission planning and coverage analysis.
3. 3D Elliptical Modeling: High-quality 3D render of orbits around Earth, including visualization of inclination, eccentricity, and semi-major axis.

• Python & GPT-5.5: Core logic, numerical integration, and advanced simulation scripts.
• NumPy & SciPy: Handling complex vector mathematics and ODE solving.
• Matplotlib: Generating high-fidelity 2D/3D plots and animations.

• Python (Scientific Computing)
• NumPy (Linear Algebra)
• Matplotlib (3D Visualization)
• Orbital Mechanics (Keplerian Physics)
• Numerical Integration (Runge-Kutta Methods)

The projected path of the satellite over the global map, showing latitude and longitude coverage. Ground Track Simulation

Dynamic representation of the satellite's motion in the orbital plane. 2D Orbit Animation

A complete 3D visualization of an elliptical orbit, highlighting the Earth-satellite spatial relationship. 3D Orbit Visualization

Author: [Maede Nourshargh]
Date: June 2026