Satellite Spotting
April 17th 2011 18:51
Category: Space Probes
Iridium 56 image by CarlCan
The night sky is not all always about the myriads of stars, constellations and planets. Artificial satellites are a great diversion for the casual observer. How many times can you remember just casually looking at the night sky and seeing a moving light.
There are many satellites to choose from, one is almost certain to be in your area. The ideal times are just after sunset or just before sunrise. The lower orbiting satellites are ideal at this time as most are high enough to be in sunlight.
At times a satellite will seem to gradually fade as it crosses the sky. The satellite will make the transition from daylight into night as it passes the Earth’s shadow. Some satellites are brighter than others, depending on their size shape and altitude.
The Space Station is a relatively bright object to see at night. The space Shuttle is also seen as a bright object but unfortunately not for much longer.
Perhaps the most dynamic satellites to observe is a group known as the Iridium satellites. These satellites can be very bright depending on your location, time and elevation. Initially the Iridium satellite network was set up to give global phone coverage. Iridium satellites have very large solar panel arrays.
What makes Iridium satellites great viewing is there antenna. When aligned it reflects the sunlight towards the observer, producing a momentary brilliant “flare,” often out-shining Planet Venus.
These flares last only seconds so observers need to be in the right location to within 20 Kilometers of the Iridium satellite pass. A very good website will provide you with the relevant information you require.
Heavens above, Heavens above Link is an excellent site all you need to do is input your location. You then choose which type of satellite you wish to observe and will provide you with a time and direction of the incoming satellite. The times given by the website are very precise but you will need to be ready.
Satellite spotting can be very enjoyable and provide an alternative to just star gazing.
Why give it a try.
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