Space Station Flyover Monday June 1 and SpaceX ISS Docking Simulator

Monday June 1 2020

The International Space Station (ISS) got a boost over the weekend with the Dragon Capsule bringing two astronauts for the first time. We had a great display of a fly over Sunday night, but there was one glitch. Did you see it? If so, then once ISS got near the moon, it faded from view. This was because the light we see is primarily the reflection of sunlight at that altitude about 250 miles above the ground. The angle of the flyover pivoted that reflected light side away from us halfway through.

 

Tonight will be different as the route will traverse directly over us in the Mid Atlantic, that will allow for the reflected light to be visible to us for longer. I have the viewing tips for this evening and also on Tuesday.

If you missed the SpaceX docking simulator, I’ve included that again bel0w.

 

ISS Viewing Tips Tonight

This is the BEST of our three night trifecta! It will be mostly clear, 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 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 NASA Video Stream

 

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 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: We will have rain during the day, but may get some breaks in the clouds at night. It will be warmer. So if you get out, you might not need a sweatshirt, but you may need bug spray.

 

New Video Report: What is this cloud?

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