Do I need to install anything?

No. It runs in any modern browser, free, with no account required.

For Students · Viewshed

Viewshed for a satellite footprint

Built for students learning it for a class or exam. See the concept move instead of memorizing formulas — and check your homework intuition. Simulate a satellite footprint live below — adjust the inputs and watch it respond, right in your browser.

Viewshed / Line of SightLive

what can you see from here?

Controls

Presets

Observer position

Observer height (m)

A viewshed marks every point visible from an observer, hidden behind intervening ridges. Scanning outward, a point is seen only if its angle above the horizontal exceeds every closer obstacle — so terrain shadows fall behind hills. Raising the observer reveals far more. It is essential for siting cell towers, wind turbines, scenic overlooks, and military positions.

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Data Inspector

Visible cells0

Coverage0%

Observer height10 m

Governing equation

d_{horizon} = 2 R h = 2 \cdot 6371 km \cdot 10 m \approx 11.3 km

Reading this result: At 10 m the observer sees over closer bumps but taller ridges still cast blind spots — coverage lands near 0%.

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Frequently asked questions

Is this good for students?: Yes — this version of "Viewshed for a satellite footprint" is framed for students learning it for a class or exam. See the concept move instead of memorizing formulas — and check your homework intuition.
Do I need to install anything?: No. It runs in any modern browser, free, with no account required.