Function Automate

Function Automate streamlines data retrieval from an API every minute, filtering out previously processed items to ensure only new data is captured. This efficient workflow enhances data management by automating updates, saving time, and reducing manual effort.

7/8/2025
4 nodes
Medium
schedulemediumautomationcodecustomapiintegration
Categories:
Schedule TriggeredMedium Workflow

Target Audience

This workflow is ideal for:
- Satellite Tracking Enthusiasts: Individuals or groups interested in tracking satellite positions in real-time.
- Developers: Programmers looking to automate data retrieval from APIs.
- Data Analysts: Professionals needing to analyze satellite data trends over time.
- Educators: Teachers and students in aerospace or astronomy fields wanting practical applications of satellite tracking.

Problem Solved

This workflow effectively addresses the challenge of regularly retrieving satellite position data from an API, ensuring that users can continuously monitor satellite movements without manual intervention. By automating the process, it minimizes the risk of missing important data points and enhances efficiency in data collection.

Workflow Steps

  • Cron Trigger: The workflow starts every minute, ensuring timely data retrieval.
    2. HTTP Request: It sends a request to the satellite position API (https://api.wheretheiss.at/v1/satellites/25544/positions) to fetch the current position data.
    3. Set Node: The retrieved data is processed to extract key information: latitude, longitude, and timestamp.
    4. Function Node: This node checks for new data against previously stored timestamps. If new data is found, it stores it; otherwise, it returns a message indicating no new items.

    • Customization Guide

    To customize this workflow:
    - Change the API Endpoint: Update the URL in the HTTP Request node to track a different satellite or data source.
    - Adjust the Cron Schedule: Modify the trigger times in the Cron node to change how frequently data is retrieved (e.g., every 5 minutes instead of every minute).
    - Enhance Data Processing: In the Function node, add more logic to handle different data types or store additional parameters as needed.
    - Modify Output Handling: Customize how new items are returned or logged, depending on your specific use case.