Privacy Policy

1. Information We Collect

AstroTrack collects and processes the following categories of information to provide and improve our services:

Device Information

We collect basic device information including device model, operating system version, unique device identifiers, and mobile network information to ensure the App functions properly on your device and for ad serving.

Usage Data and Analytics

We collect information about how you interact with the App through Firebase Analytics, including:

• Features used and screens viewed
• Time spent in the App
• Space events viewed and satellite tracking sessions
• Technical error logs and crash reports
• App performance metrics

Advertising Data

To support our free app model, we use Google AdMob and Start.io for advertisements. These services may collect:

• Device advertising identifiers
• IP address and general location (for ad targeting)
• Ad interaction data (clicks, views)
• Device characteristics for ad optimization

2. How We Use Your Information

The information collected is used for the following purposes:

• Core Functionality: Satellite tracking, space event monitoring, and astronomical calculations
• Location Services: Provide accurate satellite pass predictions and sky positioning specific to your location
• App Improvement: Analyze usage patterns, identify bugs, and improve performance
• Ad Support: Display relevant advertisements to keep the app free
• Space Data Integration: Fetch real-time data from NASA, SpaceX, and other space agencies
• Technical Support: Diagnose issues and provide customer support

3. Data Sharing and Disclosure

We respect your privacy and do not sell, rent, or trade your personal information to third parties for their marketing purposes. We may share information only in the following circumstances:

Third-Party Service Providers

• Google Firebase: For app analytics, crash reporting, and performance monitoring
• Google AdMob: For displaying advertisements (subject to Google's privacy policies)
• Start.io: For additional advertisement services

Space Data APIs

We fetch data from NASA, SpaceX, N2YO, ESA, JAXA, and ISRO APIs. These requests do not include your personal information - only technical API calls for space data.

Legal Requirements

We may disclose information when required by law, legal process, or government request, or to protect our rights, property, safety, or that of our users.

4. Third-Party Services

AstroTrack integrates several third-party services:

Google Services (Firebase & AdMob)

We use Google Firebase for analytics, crash reporting, and cloud services, and Google AdMob for advertisements. Google may collect and use data including device identifiers, IP address, and usage information in accordance with Google's Privacy Policy.

Start.io Advertising

Start.io provides additional advertising services and may collect device and usage data for ad targeting and optimization.

Space Data Sources

We integrate with legitimate space agencies and organizations:

• NASA: Astronomy Picture of the Day, Mars rover images, space weather data
• SpaceX: Launch information and mission data
• N2YO.com: Real-time satellite tracking data
• ESA, JAXA, ISRO: Additional space mission data

Important: For detailed information about Google's data practices, please review the Google Privacy Policy.

5. Location Permission Disclosure

6. Data Security

We implement appropriate security measures to protect your information:

• Secure data transmission using HTTPS/TLS encryption
• Firebase security rules and authentication
• Regular security assessments and updates
• Access controls and authentication mechanisms
• Minimal data retention policies

However, no method of electronic transmission or storage is 100% secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

7. Data Retention

We retain your information only as long as necessary:

• Location Data: Used temporarily for calculations, not stored permanently
• Usage Analytics: Aggregated and anonymized after 26 months (Google Analytics standard)
• Crash Reports: Retained for up to 90 days for debugging purposes
• Ad Data: Managed by advertising partners according to their retention policies

8. Your Rights and Choices

You have the following rights regarding your personal information:

• Location Control: Enable/disable location services in device settings
• Ad Preferences: Opt out of personalized ads through device settings
• Data Access: Request access to data we hold about you
• Data Deletion: Request deletion of your personal information
• App Uninstall: Completely remove the app and associated data

9. Children's Privacy

AstroTrack is suitable for educational use by children under parental guidance. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13 without parental consent. If we become aware of such collection, we will take steps to delete the information promptly.

10. Advertising and Monetization

AstroTrack is free and supported by advertisements:

• We display ads from Google AdMob and Start.io
• Ads help us keep the app completely free for users
• We do not sell user data to advertisers
• Advertising partners may use device identifiers for ad targeting
• You can limit ad tracking in your device settings

11. International Data Transfers

Your information may be transferred to and processed in countries other than your country of residence, including the United States where Google and other service providers operate. We ensure appropriate safeguards are in place to protect your information.

12. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. When we make changes, we will:

• Update the "Effective Date" at the top of this policy
• Notify users through the app if material changes are made
• Obtain consent if required for significant changes

14. Governing Law

This Privacy Policy shall be governed by and construed in accordance with applicable data protection laws and regulations, including GDPR where applicable, and the laws of the jurisdiction where Neon Innovation Lab operates.