Launch Calendar

The Launch Calendar Plugin is a component of the KeepTrack application that allows users to view upcoming space launches via Gunter’s Space Page.

Note

Gunter’s Space Page is provided free of charge and offers a comprehensive list of upcoming space launches. If you feel inclined to support their work, consider donating to help maintain the service. The link to donate will appear on the calendar page. Gunter does not endorse or have any affiliation with KeepTrack.

Features

• Quick access to the launch calendar via a bottom menu icon
• Opens the calendar in a colorbox overlay
• Automatically loads the current year’s launch schedule
• Prevents accidental closure of the calendar

User Interface

The plugin adds the following UI element:

1. A “Launch Calendar” icon in the bottom menu for quick access

Note

The launch calendar icon uses a calendar image for easy recognition.

Usage

1. Click the “Launch Calendar” icon in the bottom menu
2. The launch calendar for the current year will open in a colorbox overlay
3. Browse the upcoming launches
4. Close the colorbox to return to the main KeepTrack interface

Tip

The plugin automatically determines the current year and loads the appropriate calendar page.

Integration with KeepTrack

The Launch Calendar Plugin integrates with the following KeepTrack components:

• SettingsManager: Used to prevent accidental closure of the colorbox
• ColorboxManager: Handles opening and closing of the colorbox overlay

Development

When extending or modifying the Launch Calendar Plugin, consider the following:

• The plugin follows the KeepTrackPlugin architecture
• It uses the openColorbox function to display the calendar
• The plugin prevents colorbox closure for 2 seconds after opening to avoid accidental closures

Caution

When modifying the plugin, ensure that the URL for Gunter’s Space Page is kept up-to-date to maintain functionality.

Code Configuration

The plugin supports the following configuration options:

• bottomIconElementName: The ID of the bottom menu icon element
• bottomIconImg: The image used for the bottom menu icon
• bottomIconLabel: The label for the bottom menu icon
• isForceHideSideMenus: Set to true to hide side menus when the calendar is open

Troubleshooting

• If the calendar doesn’t open, check your internet connection
• Ensure that the browser allows pop-ups for the KeepTrack site
• If the calendar closes immediately after opening, check that the settingsManager.isPreventColorboxClose flag is being set correctly

Note

The Launch Calendar Plugin relies on an external website. If the calendar fails to load, it may be due to changes or issues with Gunter’s Space Page.