Space Station Flyover Viewing Next 3 Nights and SpaceX ISS Docking Simulator

Sunday May 31 2020

History was just made when SpaceX and NASA successfully launched two astronauts into space on Saturday May 30. Today, they successfully docked with the International Space Station (ISS). Tonight is the first of three nights in a row with a flyover for Maryland (and the region), giving us prime viewing opportunities. To add to the excitement in Elon Musk fashion, Space X has provided a free online docking simulation that is like an amazing game on a mobile phone.

Here you will see the viewing opportunities for tonight, Monday June 1, and Tuesday June 2. There is a live video stream from ISS below, and I have also included the link to the docking simulator.  This is really exciting! I can’t decide which part is my favorite.

SpaceX Dragon and ISS

Under normal conditions, ISS is visible with the naked eye. Now the Dragon Capsule is an additional object to add to the visual display.

 

Viewing Tips Sunday Night

See Monday and Tuesday schedule and tracking below

Technically there are two flyovers this evening. The first will be at 9:03 PM. It is expected to remain below 23º, so if you live near buildings or trees like many, it won’t be easy to see. The second pass is the main event highlighted here.

Our first real view of the ISS flyover with the new SpaceX crew will last just under 4 minutes and peak at 10:41 PM. The track will start from the northwest sky, around the same region where the sun sets.

• 10:38 PM = First View
• Look in the region where the sun sets.
• 10:42 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.

Weather: It will be clear and a little chilly (50s). Allow your eyes to adjust to the dark for a few minutes prior. Also, wear pants and a sweatshirt for comfort if you plan to be out longer than 10 minutes.

 

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
• Origin: The first component was launched in 1998
• Occupied since November 2, 2000. This year will be the 20th anniversary!

 

 

Live View From ISS

 

Docking Simulation from SpaceX

I don’t know where to begin telling you about how much fun this is, and NOT EASY.  The simulation let’s you control the Dragon on approach with ISS. There are instructions. It will help kids, and adult drivers realize there is no friction in space. So each movement needs to be small and steady.

Check it out and let me know what you think:

Docking Simulator

 

Viewing Tips Monday Night

This is the BEST of the trifecta! It will be a little earlier, lasting a little longer, and passing right over us!

Our view of the ISS flyover this will last just 5 minutes and peak at 9:54 PM on Monday June 1, 2002. The track will start from the northwest sky, around the same region where the sun sets, and the same as the Sunday night viewing.

• 9:50:57 PM = First View
• Look in the region where the sun sets.
• 9:55:59 PM = Last View
• ISS will pass directly overhead, so if you lay in a pool chair or on the ground, it will seem like it’s your own show.

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

Weather: It should be mostly clear and cool. But not as chilly as Sunday evening. Allow your eyes to adjust to the dark for a few minutes prior. Also, wear pants and a sweatshirt for comfort if you plan to be out longe than 10 minutes.

 

Viewing Tips Tuesday Night

This will be the longest flyover of the group!

Our view of the ISS flyover this will last 7 1/2 minutes and peak at 9:06 PM on Tuesday June 2, 2020. The track will start from the northwest sky, around the same region where the sun sets, and the same as the Sunday night viewing.

• 9:03:09 PM = First View
• Look in the region where the sun sets.
• 9:10:32 PM = Last View
• ISS will pass about 1/2 way up the sky from the horizon.  Given the long path, you will need to be able to swivel or pivot so you can catch the whole show.

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

Weather: It should be clear to partly cloudy, but milder (60s).  Allow your eyes to adjust to the dark for a few minutes prior. Also, you may not need long pants or sleeves, but you may want bug spray.

 

Climate Report Today

To date, this is still the second coldest May on record in Baltimore.

See the Weather Collection Lab from this morning for more info about:

📋 Observations yesterday

🌡 Climate Today

🗺 Weather Map

☀️ Sunrise and Sunset Times

🌙 Moon Phase

 

 

This Morning’s Full Weather Report:

Nearly Perfect Afternoons For A Few Days

 

New Video Report: What is this cloud?

Episode 3: Morning Glory at sunrise on the beach in North Carolina