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JPL Close Approach vs MotaWord API

Same instrument, two spec sheets — measured, not claimed.

APIJPL Close ApproachNEW—MotaWord APINEW—
Uptime · 30d
Uptime · 90d—%—%
Uptime · 30d—%—%
P50 · ms——
P95 · ms——
AuthnoneapiKey
CORSnoyes
HTTPSyesyes
Card requirednono
Commercial useunclearunclear
Data licenseUnverifiedUnverified
Free tierFree — limits not publishedFree tier — API key required
Rate limitUnpublishedUnpublished
In directory since2026-07-052026-07-05
operationalpartialdownno data

JPL Close Approach vs MotaWord API: common questions

Which is more reliable, JPL Close Approach or MotaWord API?

On our scheduled checks, MotaWord API leads on measured uptime — JPL Close Approach at —% versus MotaWord API at —% over 90 days. These are our own probe results, not provider claims; the uptime bars above show the day-by-day record for both.

Do JPL Close Approach and MotaWord API need an API key?

JPL Close Approach needs no key, while MotaWord API requires a free API key. If you want to start calling without signup, reach for JPL Close Approach first.

Can I call JPL Close Approach and MotaWord API from the browser?

Only MotaWord API is browser-friendly — it returns CORS headers over HTTPS. JPL Close Approach needs a server-side call or proxy, so factor that into which one fits a front-end project.

Are JPL Close Approach and MotaWord API free for commercial use?

JPL Close Approach has unclear commercial terms, and MotaWord API has unclear commercial terms. We track service terms and the data license as separate fields — see the Commercial use and Data license rows above, and confirm both before shipping either in a paid product.