For amateur radio operators and satellite enthusiasts, SkyRoof is an exciting open-source Windows application that merges satellite tracking and SDR (Software-Defined Radio) functions into one powerful tool. It’s designed to give you a complete view of what’s happening above, while making on-air operations smoother and more visual than ever.

What Makes SkyRoof Stand Out

Unlike running separate tracking software and SDR applications, SkyRoof integrates everything in a single interface. This opens up possibilities such as:

• Waterfall With Satellite Labels – Each satellite trace is clearly marked with its name, and transponder boundaries follow the Doppler shift automatically.
• Visual Frequency Control – Tune and adjust frequencies directly with your mouse, while SkyRoof keeps everything Doppler-corrected in real time.
• Multiple Viewing Modes
  • Sky View – See where satellites are in your local sky right now.
  • Earth View – Get the satellite’s perspective looking down at Earth.
  • Time Line – Visualize upcoming passes on a time scale.
  • Pass List – Detailed predictions for when and how long each pass will be visible.

SDR Integration

SkyRoof doesn’t just track satellites — it receives them. It supports SSB, CW, and FM reception with built-in Doppler tracking and RIT (Receiver Incremental Tuning). The waterfall can span entire satellite segments on VHF and UHF, and you can zoom or pan to focus on what matters. Audio and I/Q streams can be sent to other software via virtual audio cables or UDP.

Hardware Support

Whether you’re using an SDR dongle, a more advanced receiver, or even a full-blown transceiver, SkyRoof can connect. It offers:

• CAT control for transceivers
• Antenna rotator control for automated tracking
• Compatibility with popular SDR devices

Works Even Without a Radio

While SkyRoof is best used with an SDR or transceiver, it can also operate in a “tracking-only” mode. This means you can explore satellite passes, positions, and predictions even if you don’t have hardware connected — perfect for learning or planning ahead.

Why It’s Worth Trying

SkyRoof simplifies satellite operations by putting everything you need — tracking, receiving, tuning, and visualizing — into a single program. The open-source nature means it’s continuously improving, and the intuitive design makes it approachable even if you’re just getting into satellite work.

If you’re into ham radio satellites or thinking about diving in, SkyRoof is definitely worth adding to your station’s toolkit.

Visit https://ve3nea.github.io/SkyRoof/index.html