When Can I See the Space Station in the Sky?

It is possible to see the International Space Station from earth if one knows exactly when and where to look, even without a telescope. Although the Space Station can be seen, it is important to remember that it is not visible all the time. First, it cannot be seen in the daytime, and it can only be seen when it is passing through the sky above where you live.

Seeing the Space Station from earth is only possible under certain conditions and in certain locations. Just before and just after the sunrise and sunset are the best times to view the International Space Station, because the rising and setting sun can reflect its powerful rays off of the many facets of the station. It appears as an extremely bright, silent, and fast-moving star.

Because it is only in a low-earth orbit, it is actually viewable for several minutes at a time—usually about three minutes, although its time within view can last as long as four minutes in some areas.

The Space Station is sometimes visible for many days in a row, often early in the morning and sometimes in the evening. Finding the specific times and days when the International Space Station flies overhead is not difficult; one only needs to log into NASA’s website to do so!

Space Station Website

If you’re wondering where to go for more information, NASA’s website has everything that you need. First, go to the International Space Station’s website for sighting opportunities. Then, along the left-hand side, click on the link for the country in which you live. This is very important, as the Space Station’s visibility depends on your location.

Choose your country, your state (if you live in the United States), and then the city in which you live. These cities are listed in alphabetical order, but not every city in your state will be listed, so you might have to choose a city close to where you live.

The website will then show you a list of dates and times when visibility opportunities may occur. All you’ll need to do now to see the International Space Station is to step outside after dinner (or early in the morning) and wait to see it cross the sky!

About the Space Station

The International Space Station is a satellite built jointly by several countries that functions as a research facility in space. It floats in a low-earth orbit around the globe and serves as a sort of laboratory where experiments and research on biology, chemistry, physics, and other sciences can take place.

Because it is the largest satellite floating above the earth, the International Space Station can be seen without the aid of a telescope or even binoculars. Moreover, the Space Station continues to grow! It has been in nearly continuous construction since 1998, and it still is not finished.

Construction on the International Space Station is slated to finish up in 2011. Scientists believe that the Space Station will be in use as a research facility until at least the year 2015, although some speculate that it could remain open for astronauts and scientists until the 2020s.