I started my ISS Orbital Tracker project. The goal is to create a 3D
globe that shows the ISS in real-time as it orbits the planet. For the
orbital calculations, I’m using satellite.js, which handles the SGP4
math. For the 3D globe, I’m using globe.gl with WebGL working in the background.Honestly,
HTML and frontend work aren’t my strong points. I feel most comfortable
with Python. However, “learn web development” has been on my summer
to-do list for a long time. Stardance seemed like the perfect
opportunity to finally jump in.I
began with some help from AI, and I won’t pretend otherwise. However,
I’m not just copying and pasting what it produces. I review every line
and ask, “Why does this work like that?” I’m making all the decisions
myself regarding structure and design. The AI acts more like a tutor
beside me than someone doing my work. I want to control this project,
not just watch it develop.So far, I’ve set up the basics. The HTML structure is complete. The scripts for satellite.js and globe.gl
are loaded and connected. I’ve also created a full color system using
CSS variables like –bg and –accent. I’m aiming for that dark “mission
control” vibe, similar to the energy in a NASA control room, but within a
browser tab.Next, I need to pull the ISS’s live position and display it on the globe. That’s the exciting part