Real-Time Launch Tracking
CloudKit-Based Feed System
Live Data Updates
Real-time rocket launch data from dedicated iCloud database
Automatic Status Monitoring
T-minus countdown timers with 60-second update intervals
Launch Window Monitoring
Automatic monitoring within 1 hour of launch time
In-Flight Tracking
Up to 2 hours of post-launch status tracking
Launch Status Types
GoReady for launch
InFlightCurrently launching
SuccessMission successful
FailureMission failed
HoldLaunch delayed
T-Minus Format: T-02dd:02hh:02mm:02ss
Push Notifications
CloudKit-powered notifications keep you updated on launch status changes:
- Launch time updates
- Status changes (Go/Hold)
- T-minus milestones
- Mission outcomes
Launch Pad Mapping & Navigation
GPS Compass Integration
Real-time Bearing
Precise bearing calculation to launch pads using CoreLocation
Distance Assessment
0-60 miles: Good Visibility
60-100 miles: Possible Visibility
100+ miles: Not Likely
Device Orientation
Automatic compensation for landscape/portrait modes
Smart Smoothing: Exponential smoothing provides stable compass readings with noise reduction
Interactive Mapping
- Comprehensive launch pad database
- GPS coordinates for all sites
- MapKit integration with pins
- Historical launch statistics
- Automatic optimal pad selection
Launch Pad Database
- Kennedy Space Center
- Vandenberg SFB
- Cape Canaveral SFS
- Wallops Flight Facility
- International sites
In-Camera Integration
Camera Overlay System
Real-time Information
- T-minus Display Live countdown overlaid on camera feed - Status Indicators Color-coded launch status with effects - Live Video Streams Embedded streams within camera view
Photography Enhancement
- Launch Synchronization Auto camera trigger based on T-minus - Optimal Positioning Visibility calculations for positioning - Remote Coordination MCF for multi-device shooting
Launch Pad Finder: Bearing arrows and distance information guide you to optimal viewing spots
Weather Integration: Cloud cover charts help assess visibility conditions
Live Video Stream Integration
TimeLapsed automatically prioritizes and displays live video streams from launch providers
Stream Priority System
- 1.
YouTube Live Feeds Official launch provider streams prioritized
- 1.
Alternative Streams Backup streams from verified sources
- 1.
Recorded Content Recent launch videos when live unavailable
Using Launch Tracking for Photography
1
Monitor Launches
Check the rocket launch tab for upcoming launches in your area
2
Plan Your Shot
Use the compass and distance info to find optimal viewing locations
3
Capture Launch
Use camera profiles for day/night launches with auto-trigger
Recommended Camera Profiles
Rocket Day Profile
- Lower ISO for bright conditions
- Fast shutter speed
- Interval: 1-2 seconds
Rocket Night Profile
- Higher ISO for low light
- Longer exposures
- Light painting enabled
Ready to Track Launches?
Combine rocket launch tracking with other TimeLapsed features for incredible results.