Comparison

AR Orbits vs Orbital Simulator

Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.

Head to head
About

AR Orbits

Explore the solar system and understand satellite mechanics through augmented reality. This app simplifies complex astrophysics concepts, allowing users to create and plot their own orbits, making rocket science accessible for learning and homework.

Highlights
  • Augmented reality exploration
  • Satellite mechanics simulation
  • Orbit plotting and creation
  • Astrophysics homework assistance
  • Solar system discovery
Features
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Have you ever wondered how satellites work? The phone or tablet you’re holding right now is connected to the internet via satellites, which help you navigate your car, track the weather, and discover new and exciting things about the solar system we live in. With AR Orbits, anyone can become a rocket scientist with the tap of a button. Learn how to plot and create your own orbits, or use the app to help you with your astrophysics homework. Explore a world of physics with AR Orbits.

About

Orbital Simulator

Explore orbital mechanics through interactive simulations and real-time solar system data. Learn about Kepler's Laws, practice orbital maneuvers, and engage in mission objectives. Ideal for students and space enthusiasts.

Highlights
  • Interactive orbital simulations
  • Kepler's Laws visualization
  • Orbital maneuver practice
  • Real-time solar system view
  • Customizable orbital parameters
  • Detailed educational content
  • Mission-based challenges
Features
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Embark on an interactive journey through space with Orbital Simulator: Explore. This comprehensive app is designed to educate and engage users of all levels, from space enthusiasts to students, offering a deep dive into the fascinating world of orbital mechanics. Key Features: Interactive Simulations: Experiment with circular, elliptical, and hyperbolic orbits. See how changing parameters like semi-major axis, eccentricity, and inclination affect trajectories. Kepler’s Laws: Visualize and understand Kepler’s three laws of planetary motion with clear, interactive simulations. Orbital Maneuvers: Practice key maneuvers such as Hohmann transfers, Lambert transfers, and circularizations. Learn how these maneuvers are used in real space missions. Real-Time Solar System: View real-time positions of planets and moons within our solar system. Understand how celestial bodies interact and move over time. Customizable Parameters: Adjust orbital parameters and see the immediate effects on your spacecraft's trajectory. Experiment with different scenarios and learn through hands-on experience. Educational Content: Access detailed explanations, tutorials, and guides designed to enhance your understanding of space mechanics and celestial navigation. Dynamic Environment: Navigate complex gravitational fields in various scenarios, including binary star systems and multi-body interactions. Mission Objectives: Engage in missions that challenge you to establish orbits, perform transfers, and navigate through dynamic environments. Each mission helps you apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios. Visual Trajectory Paths: Visualize the path of your spacecraft with real-time trajectory lines. Understand the impact of your maneuvers and improve your navigation skills. Why Choose Orbital Simulator: Explore? For Space Enthusiasts and Students: Whether you’re a budding astronomer or a seasoned space enthusiast, this app offers valuable insights and engaging content for all levels. Educational Tool: Ideal for classroom settings or individual study, providing interactive and immersive learning experiences. User-Friendly Interface: Intuitive controls and clear visuals make it easy to understand complex concepts. Constant Updates: We continuously update the app with new features, scenarios, and educational content to keep your learning experience fresh and relevant. Download Orbital Simulator: Explore now and embark on your journey through the stars. Master the art of orbital mechanics, explore the intricacies of celestial navigation, and experience the wonder of the cosmos. Join a community of space enthusiasts and students who are exploring the universe, one orbit at a time. Ready to become an orbital mechanic? Your adventure starts here!

Screenshots

AR Orbits4 screens
Orbital Simulator4 screens

Verdict

The call

The clearest difference is ads: AR Orbits at none against Orbital Simulator's shown. AR Orbits also leads on monetization model (free vs ad-supported). Orbital Simulator's advantage is update cadence (fortnightly vs every 18 months). On price, rating, ratings volume and in-app purchases there is nothing between them.

Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS

CostPrice · In-app purchases · Ads · Monetization

Both are free to download. Neither carries in-app purchases, so what you see is what you pay.

ReceptionRating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings

On the App Store both sit at effectively the same score — 4.9 for AR Orbits against 5.0 for Orbital Simulator. Both are backed by a comparable volume of ratings — 11 and 5 respectively.

UpkeepUpdate frequency

AR Orbits ships an update every 18 months, Orbital Simulator fortnightly. The most recent releases landed on September 23, 2026 and October 5, 2026 respectively.

Scorecard3 real differences · 7 level
AR Orbits versus Orbital Simulator: the parameters behind the verdict, then further details
ParameterAR OrbitsOrbital Simulator
PriceFreeFree
Rating4.9 (11 ratings)5.0 (5 ratings) — better
Positive reviews100.0% of reviews—
Number of ratings11 — better5
Update frequencyEvery 18 monthsFortnightly — better
AdsNo — betterYes
In-app purchasesNoNo
MonetizationFree — betterAd-supported
DevicesiPhone, iPad, iPodiPhone, iPad, iPod
Requires iOS13.012.0 — better
Further details — not scored
Size58 MB247 MB
Age rating4+17+
DeveloperTurner ThornberryRenzo Macedo

Customer experience

AR Orbits

All ratings11 ratings
Positive100.0%
Neutral0.0%
Negative0.0%
Written reviews5 reviews
Positive100.0%
Neutral0.0%
Negative0.0%

Orbital Simulator

All ratings2 ratings
Positive100.0%
Neutral0.0%
Negative0.0%

In-app purchases

None

AR Orbits

No in-app purchases

None

Orbital Simulator

No in-app purchases

Questions

Is AR Orbits free?
AR Orbits is free to download, with no in-app purchases.
Is Orbital Simulator free?
Orbital Simulator is free to download, with no in-app purchases.
Which has better reviews, AR Orbits or Orbital Simulator?
Orbital Simulator is rated higher. AR Orbits averages 4.9 out of 5 from 11 ratings, while Orbital Simulator averages 5.0 from 5 ratings.
Do AR Orbits or Orbital Simulator have ads?
Orbital Simulator shows ads; AR Orbits does not.
Which is updated more often, AR Orbits or Orbital Simulator?
AR Orbits ships an update every 18 months, and Orbital Simulator fortnightly. Most recently, AR Orbits was updated on September 23, 2026 and Orbital Simulator on October 5, 2026.

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