Tracker is an image and video analysis package and modeling tool that is built upon the Open Source Physics Java code library. Features include object tracking with position, velocity and acceleration overlays and graphs, special effect filters, multiple reference frames, calibration points and line profiles for analysis of spectra and interference patterns. It is designed to be used in introductory college physics labs and lectures. Tracker can overlay simple dynamic particle models on a video clip. In a typical video modeling experiment students capture and open a digital video file, calibrate the scale, and define appropriate coordinate axes just as for traditional video analysis. But instead of tracking objects with the mouse, students define theoretical force expressions and initial conditions for a dynamic model simulation that synchronizes with and draws itself on the video. The behavior of the model is thus compared directly with that of the real-world motion. Tracker uses the Open Source Physics code library so sophisticated models are possible. Video modeling offers advantages over both traditional video analysis and simulation-only modeling.
What's new in 6.3.4
added "Fast" autotracker option to search at maximum speed without refreshing plots and tables
added adjustable speed to default autotracker option to search with live plots and tables
added tooltips showing full precision start time, frame rate and frame dt in clip settings
fixed bug allowing uncontrolled visibility of autotracker templates and search areas
fixed bug when marking calibration stick with the mouse
6.3.1
Frequently asked questions
Is Tracker free?
Yes. Tracker is free and open-source software released under the GPL-3.0 license.
What is the latest version of Tracker?
The latest version is 6.3.4, released on Mar 26, 2026.
Is it safe to download Tracker?
The download button links to the official installer published on physlets.org, the same file Windows Package Manager installs. You can verify the downloaded file by comparing its SHA-256 checksum with 8cae6297eccfce8b5a13a4648f17842f77a9fda5982f76505c7d9786546c1f83.
Which Windows versions does Tracker support?
Tracker runs on Windows and is available for 64-bit (x64) systems.
How do I install Tracker silently?
Run the offline installer with "Tracker-6.3.4-windows-x64-installer.exe" --mode unattended --unattendedmodeui none, or install it with Windows Package Manager: winget install --id=OpenSourcePhysics.Tracker -e --silent.
How do I uninstall Tracker?
Open Settings › Apps › Installed apps, find Tracker and select Uninstall. From the command line, run winget uninstall --id=OpenSourcePhysics.Tracker -e.
Alternatives to Tracker
Other Teaching & Training programs for Windows from different developers.
