Spot The International Space Station Monday Evening April 6 And Live Cam

April 6th 2020

The International Space Station (ISS) will make the next flyover our region this evening. It will be about one hour after sunset, which is a perfect set up. The ISS will be high enough to reflect some sunlight and appear like a very large light in the sky. It will move like a plane, but will not have blinking lights which is how you will know this is it.

Thanks to the clear sky AND lower pollution in our COVID-19 shutdown, this should put on a good show.  The only drawback is the moon will be just one day before becoming Full, so there will be added light in the sky.

 

Viewing Tips

Our view of the ISS flyover will last about 6 1/2 minutes and peak at 8:34 PM. The track will start from the northwest sky.

• 8:31 PM = First View
• If you face south, the moon will be on your left and Venus will be on your right. ISS will pass from your right in the view.
• If you look in the direction of the sunset (West), you will notice Venus. This will be the ‘very’ bright object for 1 to 2 hours. The ISS will be visible  near that.
• 8:38 PM = Last View

ISS will pass about halfway up in the sky, so you will not have to strain your neck.

The International Space Station will appear like a fast moving plane with a very bright steady light, but no blinking lights.

 

 

ISS Trivia

You will be able to see it with your own eyes, but binoculars may help you identify some of the solar panels and central structure. I don’t recommend a telescope since it will be moving pretty fast. Check out these stats:

 

• Orbital speed: 17,000 mph
• Complete Orbit = 92.65 minutes
• Orbits per day: 15.54
• Days in orbit: 17 years, 26 days
• Altitude:  Ranges between 249 and 256 miles above the ground

 

 

Live View From ISS

 

Tracking Map

If the map does not appear, click for it here