Look out for the International Space Station
Most people will have heard of the International Space Station (ISS), but many may not realise it is easily visible in the evening sky for a couple of weeks every two months or so, weather permitting.
Most people will have heard of the International Space Station (ISS), but many may not realise it is easily visible in the evening sky for a couple of weeks every two months or so, weather permitting.Local astronomer Jason Hart has asked us to point out that one such window of opportunity is happening now - and will last into October.
He says: "It will usually appear low in the west (i.e. where the sun sets) and then climb high into the sky, crossing it from right to left, before disappearing into the Earth's shadow a few minutes later.
"It is easy to identify as it is much brighter than any star, is pure white in colour and shines with an un-blinking, steady light.
"It's brightness stems from the fact that it is large (about the size of a football field); is in relatively low Earth orbit (about 217 miles above the surface) and highly reflective of sunlight due to its solar panels.
"It travels at an average speed of 17,210 miles per hour, taking just over 90 minutes to orbit the Earth."
If the sky is clear, it will be visible at the following times:
Tonight 24th September 7.29pm
25 September 7:55pm
26 Sept 8:21pm
27 Sept 7:13pm
28 Sept 7:39pm
29 Sept 8:05pm
30 Sept 8:32pm
1 October 7:23pm
2 Oct 7:49pm
3 Oct 8:16pm
The above times (which are for Peterborough and the surrounding area) are a guideline only and can change slightly. For more info please visit www.heavens-above.com
If you catch a glimpse - and take a photo - email eteditor@peterboroughtoday.co.uk and let us know.
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Weather for Peterborough
Sunday 14 March 2010
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 2 C - 8 C
Wind Speed: 14 Knots
Wind direction: North west
Tomorrow
Sunny spells
Temperature: 2 C - 10 C
Wind Speed: 18 Knots
Wind direction: North west
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