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Today, we will introduce you to a fascinating NASA project known as the ISS online webcam, which offers high-definition live footage directly from the International Space Station. On the screen above, you can observe the astronauts and the captivating view of outer space.
The International Space Station and the shuttle Endeavor
The ISS webcam is fixed on the outer surface of the station and streams continuous video online.
I want to remind you that the most magnificent object in space, built by humans, is the International Space Station. Its current location can be tracked, showing its exact position above the Earth’s surface. The orbit is displayed in real time on your computer, which was unimaginable just a few years ago.
Taking a long-exposure shot, the camera was pointed towards Polaris.
The size of the International Space Station (ISS) is truly impressive. It measures 51 meters in length, 109 meters in width, and 20 meters in height. With a weight of 417.3 tons, the ISS is a massive structure floating in space. It’s worth noting that the weight may vary depending on whether the Soyuz spacecraft is docked to it or not. As a reminder, the U.S. no longer operates its space shuttles; instead, they rely on our Russian Soyuz spacecraft for transportation to the ISS.
Building the Station
An animated timeline showcasing the construction of the station between 1999 and 2010.
The station was constructed using a modular approach, with various segments being designed and built by different participating countries. Each module was assigned a specific purpose, such as research, living quarters, or storage.
Animation of construction in three dimensions
For instance, let’s consider the American Unity modules, which act as connectors and are also used for docking with ships. Currently, the station is composed of 14 primary modules. These modules have a combined volume of 1000 cubic meters and weigh approximately 417 tons. The station can accommodate a permanent crew of 6 or 7 individuals.
The station was assembled by progressively docking the next block or module to the existing complex, which is already operational in orbit.
In 2013, the International Space Station (ISS) consisted of 14 main modules. The Russian modules included Poisk, Rassvet, Zarya, Zvezda, and Pirs. The American modules included Unity, Dome, Leonardo, Tranquility, Destiny, Quest, and Harmony. The European module was Columbus, and the Japanese module was Kibo.
This diagram depicts both the primary and secondary components comprising the station (shaded), as well as those intended for future installation – not shaded.
The distance between the Earth and the ISS varies from 413-429 km. Periodically, the station is “raised” as it gradually descends due to friction with residual atmospheric particles. The altitude at which it is situated also depends on various factors, including space debris.
Lightning is the cause of the bright spots on Earth.
The recent hit movie “Gravity” vividly demonstrated the potential dangers of space debris coming into close proximity with orbiting objects, although it may have exaggerated the risks slightly. The height of the orbit is also influenced by factors such as the Sun and other less significant variables.
There is a specialized service in place to ensure the ISS maintains a safe flight altitude and that the astronauts are not in danger.
There have been instances where the trajectory of the ISS had to be altered due to space debris, so its altitude is also subject to factors beyond our control. The trajectory can be seen clearly on graphs, and it’s fascinating to observe how the station traverses seas and continents, flying directly above us.
Velocity of orbital movement
The Soyuz series spacecraft can be seen against the backdrop of the Earth in this image, which was captured using a long exposure time.
If you were to discover the speed at which the ISS is traveling, you would be astounded by the truly enormous numbers involved. The space station orbits at a speed of 27,700 km/h, which is more than 100 times faster than a typical car. It takes approximately 92 minutes for the ISS to complete one revolution around the Earth. In a 24-hour period, astronauts on board the station experience 16 sunrises and sunsets. The situation is continuously monitored by experts at the ATC and Mission Control Center in Houston. When watching live broadcasts, please keep in mind that the ISS periodically enters the Earth’s shadow, which may result in temporary interruptions to the video feed.
Astronaut Tracy Caldwell Dyson observes the Earth
If we consider the initial decade of the station’s operation, approximately 200 individuals participated in 28 expeditions, setting an unparalleled record for space stations (our station “Mir” had been visited by “only” 104 individuals). Furthermore, apart from the duration records, the station served as the pioneering example of space flight commercialization. The Russian space agency Roscosmos, in collaboration with the American company Space Adventures, successfully facilitated the journey of space tourists into orbit for the first time.
A total of 8 tourists experienced space travel, with each flight costing between 20 to 30 million dollars, which, in the grand scheme, is not exorbitant.
According to the most conservative approximations, the potential number of individuals embarking on an authentic space voyage is estimated to be in the thousands.
In the future, as more launches occur, the price of space travel will decrease, leading to an increase in the number of individuals eager to embark on this extraordinary adventure. As early as 2014, private companies started providing a viable alternative to traditional space flights – suborbital shuttles, which offer a much more affordable price and have less stringent requirements for tourists. From the vantage point of a suborbital flight (approximately 100-140 km above the Earth’s surface), our planet will captivate future travelers with its awe-inspiring beauty and celestial wonders.
A vast plume of dust extends from the deserts of Egypt all the way to the Red Sea.
This live broadcast is one of the rare interactive astronomical events that we can witness firsthand, which is incredibly convenient. It’s important to note that the online station may not always be accessible, and there could be technical disruptions during the flyby in the shadow zone. To get the best view of the ISS video, it’s recommended to use a camera that is pointed towards Earth, allowing you to catch glimpses of our planet from orbit whenever the opportunity arises.
When viewed from space, the Earth appears incredibly mesmerizing as it reveals not only its vast continents, majestic oceans, and bustling cities, but also captivating auroras and colossal hurricanes that exude an otherworldly beauty.
To provide you with a glimpse of the Earth’s perspective from the International Space Station, please take a moment to view the following video.
This video showcases the breathtaking view of our planet from outer space, captured through the use of interval shooting by astronauts. It is a truly remarkable video of exceptional quality, best enjoyed in 720p resolution with audio. This compilation stands out as one of the finest edited videos featuring stunning imagery from orbit.
Not only does the live webcam offer a unique glimpse beneath the Earth’s surface, but it also allows us to witness the astronauts’ activities, such as unloading the Soyuz spacecraft or docking maneuvers. However, please note that live broadcasts may occasionally experience interruptions due to channel congestion or signal transmission issues, particularly in relay areas. In such cases, a static NASA splash screen or a “blue screen” will be displayed.
The space station can be observed in the moonlight, with the Soyuz spacecraft visible against the backdrop of the Orion constellation and the northern lights.
Nonetheless, you can still catch a glimpse of the view from the International Space Station online. While the crew is resting, internet users can watch the live broadcast of the starry sky from the perspective of the astronauts, who are positioned 420 kilometers above the Earth.
Schedule for the Crew’s Activities
In order to determine the sleeping and waking hours of the astronauts, it is important to keep in mind that the crew follows Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) while in space. During winter, UTC is three hours behind Moscow time, and during summer, it is four hours behind. Consequently, the time displayed on the ISS camera is also in UTC.
The appearance of the moon is altered due to the Earth’s atmosphere
Astronauts (or cosmonauts, depending on the crew) have a designated time of eight and a half hours for sleep. Typically, they wake up at 6.00 and go to bed at 21.30. They are required to provide morning reports to Earth, which usually begin around 7.30 – 7.50 (on the American segment) and 7.50 – 8.00 (on the Russian segment). In the evening, reports are submitted from 18.30 to 19.00. If the webcam is currently streaming the specific communication channel, you may be able to hear the astronauts’ reports. Occasionally, the broadcast may be in Russian.
Astronaut Hans Schlegel is currently stationed in the vastness of space.
Keep in mind that you are tuned in to the NASA service channel, originally designed exclusively for experts. However, everything changed on the eve of the station’s 10th anniversary, when the ISS online camera was made accessible to the general public. And, up until now, the International Space Station continues to be available online.
Spacecraft docking
One of the most thrilling moments captured by a live web camera is the docking of various spacecraft such as “Soyuz”, “Progress”, Japanese, and European cargo ships. Additionally, viewers are treated to the spectacle of astronauts venturing into outer space.
However, due to the immense popularity of this event, the channel experiences a heavy load as hundreds and thousands of people tune in to watch the video from the International Space Station. As a result, the live broadcast may occasionally experience interruptions. Nevertheless, this extraordinary spectacle never fails to captivate viewers!
Flying across the planet’s surface
By the way, if we consider the areas where we fly over, as well as the time when the station is in shadow or light, we can plan our viewing of the broadcast using the graphic scheme provided at the top of this page.
Materials organized by topic
If you have limited time to watch, keep in mind that the livestream from the International Space Station (ISS) is available 24/7, allowing you to always enjoy the breathtaking views of space. However, it is recommended to tune in during astronaut activities or spacecraft docking for a more engaging experience.
Despite all the precautions taken at the station and with the ships that served it, there were unfortunate incidents. One of the most serious accidents was the disaster of the shuttle Columbia, which took place on February 1, 2003. Despite the fact that the shuttle did not dock with the station and had its own independent mission, this tragedy resulted in a ban on all subsequent space shuttle flights. This ban was only lifted in July 2005. As a result, the construction completion time was extended, as only Russian Soyuz and Progress spacecraft were able to transport people and various cargoes to the station, becoming the sole means of transportation to orbit.
Additionally, in 2006, there was a smoke incident in the Russian segment, and in 2001 and twice in 2007, there were computer malfunctions. The crew faced the most challenges in the fall of 2007 when they had to repair a solar panel that broke during installation.
International Space Station (photo obtained by amateur astro-amateurs)
By utilizing the information provided on this page, it is simple to determine the current location of the ISS. The station is easily visible from Earth, appearing as a bright moving star that swiftly travels from west to east.
A long exposure shot beautifully captures the station.
There are even some astronomy enthusiasts who are able to capture an image of the ISS from our planet.
The International Space Station was captured on January 24, 2013 in Sydney, Australia.
These images appear to be of exceptional quality, allowing for the observation of docked spacecrafts and the potential sight of astronauts in outer space.
Photo of the Sun with the H-alpha filter in the background
If you plan to observe the Sun using a telescope, it’s important to note that it moves rapidly. Having a go-to pointing system can be beneficial as it helps you track the object without losing sight of it.
The current location of the station can be seen in the graphic provided.
If you’re unfamiliar with how to view it from Earth or if you don’t possess a telescope, this live video stream is accessible and available 24/7!
ISS Tracker – ISS Tracking Map
Data provided by the European Space Agency
Using this interactive chart, you have the ability to calculate when the station will pass by for observation. Assuming the weather is clear and there are no clouds, you’ll have the opportunity to witness firsthand the captivating glide of the station, a true testament to the advancements of our civilization.
Just keep in mind that the station’s orbit has an inclination angle of approximately 51 degrees. It passes over various cities such as Voronezh, Saratov, Kursk, Orenburg, Astana, and Komsomolsk-on-Amur. The farther north you are from this line, the more difficult or even impossible it will be to see it with your own eyes. In reality, you will only be able to observe it above the horizon in the southern part of the sky.
Flight over the Big Dipper constellation
If we consider the latitude of Moscow, the optimal moment for observing it would be when the path of the flight is positioned just above 40 degrees above the horizon, specifically after sunset and before sunrise.
A 3D representation of the International Space Station on June 15, 2013.
By the by, just in case you weren’t aware, there is a free app available for Android devices that can alert you ahead of time when the station will be passing over your location.
The Purpose and Aims of the Global Station
The creation of the station has a primary objective of enabling the conduction of diverse experiments and tests that necessitate the unique space conditions, particularly weightlessness, vacuum, and microgravity. It is vital to remember that space radiation on the ISS, which is located at an altitude of over 420 kilometers, is not attenuated by the Earth’s atmosphere. This factor plays a significant role not only in various research studies but also in the lives of the astronauts themselves. The key fields of research encompass disciplines like biology (biomedical research and biotechnology), physics, and its subfields such as astronomy and cosmology.
All scientific investigations are conducted utilizing a variety of apparatus that is situated within scientific divisions, known as laboratories.
Another portion of the equipment, which requires a vacuum, is affixed outside the enclosure of the station. The altitude of the orbit is approximately 420 km, enabling the utilization of a vacuum that is nearly unattainable in the most advanced laboratories on our planet. The webcam offers a clear view of the expansive and desolate expanse of outer space, where, besides the presence of the Earth, Moon, and Sun, there exists a void permeated by various forms of cosmic radiation.
Gallery of pictures showcasing the International Space Station
These images capture different moments of the station. We suggest viewing the gallery in full-screen mode, accessed through the button located at the top right corner.
Virtual tour of the International Space Station
Astronaut Sunita Williams has created this brief tour showcasing the design, interior arrangement, and daily activities aboard the International Space Station. We trust that you will find this video tour in Russian captivating.
Watch NASA TV Live
Experience the excitement of NASA TV Live
Explore captivating photos of the station’s interior and exterior
It is worth noting that despite the abundance of space objects and their incredible imagery captured by orbiting observatories and ground-based telescopes, there is great fascination in exploring beyond our own planet.
Observing the Earth from space reveals a breathtaking sight – a diamond set against a backdrop of velvet. The experience of witnessing this beauty firsthand is truly invaluable.
If there is a poor internet connection, the video players might display black screens, and if you click on them, you may encounter an error. To resolve this issue, you can simply reload the page by pressing Ctrl+F5. If you see the message “IS OFF-AIR,” it means that there is currently no live stream available.
Camera #1
Webcam #2
NASA TV and NASA TV’s Media Channel
Watch NASA TV live online
NASA TV’s Media Channel
Channel description for videos
Live streaming from ISS webcams
Experience live broadcasts from various NASA webcams placed both inside and outside of the Station. The second video player may sometimes have audio. Occasional interruptions in the signal transmission are common. If the players freeze during the live stream, a simple page refresh usually resolves the issue. There are also instances where recorded broadcasts are aired.
NASA TV and NASA TV’s Media Channel
Tune in to live broadcasts from NASA, featuring Ilon Musk’s spacecraft launches, significant events taking place on the ISS, video conferences between foreign ISS crew members and Earth in the participants’ language, as well as broadcasts of recorded science and news programs in English.
ISS orbit, location, and parameters
The current position of the International Space Station is indicated on the map by its symbol. The current parameters of the ISS, including coordinates, orbit altitude, speed, and time to sunrise or sunset, are displayed in the upper left corner.
Symbols for station parameters (default units):
- Lat:Latitude in degrees;
- Lng:Longitude in degrees;
- Alt:Altitude in kilometers;
- V:Speed in kilometers per hour;
- timeto sunrise or sunset at the station (on Earth, observe the light shade boundary on the map).
The value of speed in km/h is certainly impressive, but it becomes more illustrative when expressed in km/s. To change the unit of speed, you can click on the gears located in the upper left corner of the map. Once the window opens, click on the icon with a single gear in the top panel and select km/s instead of km/h from the list of parameters. In this window, you also have the option to adjust other map parameters.
Overall, there are three conventional lines displayed on the map. One of these lines represents the current trajectory of the ISS, indicated by an icon. The other two lines represent the next two orbits, which the ISS will pass over points located at the same longitude as its current position. The first orbit will occur in 90 minutes, and the second orbit will occur in 180 minutes.
The map scale can be adjusted using the «+» and «-» buttons located in the upper left corner, or by simply scrolling when the cursor is on the map surface.
What is visible through the ISS webcams
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) streams live footage from the webcams on board the International Space Station (ISS). The cameras often capture images of the Earth, including clouds, cyclones, anticyclones, and the Earth’s surface in clear weather, as well as the surface of seas and oceans, during the ISS’s orbit over the day zone. When the webcam is pointed vertically at the Earth, viewers can see detailed landscapes, and sometimes, even when it is pointed at the horizon.
When observing the broadcast picture from a webcam pointed vertically at the Earth, take note of how it moves in relation to the satellite on the map. This will make it easier to spot specific objects for observation, such as islands, lakes, riverbeds, mountain ranges, and straits.
Occasionally, the image is transmitted online from web cameras positioned inside the Station, allowing us to watch the American segment of the ISS and observe the actions of astronauts during experiments.
During important events on the Station, such as docking, crew changes, and spacewalks, online broadcasting is conducted with sound. During these times, we can listen to the Station crew members conversing with each other, the Mission Control Center, or the replacement crew on the approaching ship for docking.
At times, the audio is played unexpectedly, even when there is a disconnection of video communication with Earth.
The International Space Station (ISS) completes a full revolution around Earth in 90 minutes, passing through both the night and day zones of the planet. To see the current location of the Station, refer to the orbit map above.
Additionally, here are some sights you can expect to see from space in the Earth’s night zone:
- If the webcam is pointed towards the horizon, you may catch a glimpse of the brightest stars and the Moon.
- During thunderstorms, you may witness flashes of lightning.
- In clear weather, you can observe the lights* emitted by cities and other populated areas.
* For a full view of city lights, you need to maximize the online streaming player. The lights on Earth will glide across the screen, unlike the fixed star-like interference. Even on a minimized screen, you can still catch a glimpse of the lights, although they may not be as vibrant and plentiful.
The moon is positioned close to the horizon as the sun begins to rise.
Lights of the nocturnal metropolis captured by the ISS webcam
These images are derived from excerpts of the initial video player during NASA’s live broadcast, which have been enlarged to fill the entire screen.
Observe the trajectory of the International Space Station as it orbits our planet. Observe captivating screenshots captured from the NASA video players showcased on this platform.
When night falls on our planet, the crew members aboard the International Space Station (ISS) are treated to a breathtaking view of thousands of twinkling lights dotting the Earth’s surface. These mesmerizing lights are none other than the illuminated cities that pepper the globe. In addition to this captivating sight, the astronauts stationed on the ISS, which orbits at an altitude of 420 kilometers, are also privileged to witness the enchanting display of natural phenomena, including the vibrant polar lights. However, it was recently revealed by astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti that there is yet another source of luminosity that catches their attention while in space. This radiant glow is observed during the daytime and originates from the Ashalim power plant located in the Negev Desert region of southern Israel. Comprised of an impressive array of 50,000 solar panels and a towering structure that reaches a height of approximately 250 meters, this power plant emits a radiant light that is impossible to miss. Clearly, the ISS crew members are fortunate to witness a multitude of captivating sights from their unique vantage point. But is it possible for us Earth-dwellers to catch a glimpse of the ISS in return? The answer is a resounding yes, and now we will explore the methods through which we can achieve this remarkable feat.
The International Space Station is visible to the naked eye, all you need is to know how to do it
Fascinating fact: At one point, the Ashalim power plant held the record for being the tallest in the world. This achievement was later surpassed by the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Station (UAE), which stands at a height of 262 meters. The Arabian station is expected to assist Dubai in transitioning to 100% clean energy by 2050.
The Ashalim power plant as seen from outer space
Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s solar station
How to observe the ISS from the Earth
You can witness the ISS without the need for a telescope or even binoculars. The movement of the space station can be tracked with the naked eye, provided that the right conditions are met. Typically, the ISS becomes visible in the sky during twilight or early morning. It is essential for the Sun to have already set below the horizon, and for the space station to be at least partially illuminated by its light. By stepping outside during a clear sunset or sunrise, away from the interference of streetlights, you can perceive a moving, glowing speck against the backdrop of the dark sky. This speck represents the space station where American astronauts and Russian cosmonauts reside.
Observing the ISS in the sky is limited to this method.
It is worth noting that the ISS is constantly in motion. This means that at the usual 8:00 PM it may be visible over Moscow, and later – over another city. To track the movement of the ISS and identify it among the stars, the easiest way is to use special applications. I always recommend Stellarium, which is compatible with most modern devices – I mentioned it in my article on the Perseid meteor shower in 2022.
Monitoring the International Space Station using Stellarium for the PC
Another alternative for tracking the orbiting laboratory is the ISS Online website. It provides real-time information on the current location of the International Space Station and its velocity. However, this parameter remains relatively constant – the speed of the International Space Station is approximately 27,000 kilometers per hour. On the site, you can input your city and determine the precise time when the International Space Station will be most visible. For instance, on September 9, 2022, residents of Moscow will have the opportunity to observe the station at 03:24 am.
The International Space Station (ISS) is of considerable size, but when viewed from Earth, it appears as a tiny speck in the sky.
Additionally, you can discover the current composition of the ISS crew on the website. As of the time of this writing, there are seven individuals aboard: astronauts Chell Lindgren, Robert Hines, Samantha Cristoforetti, Jessica Watkins, along with Russian cosmonauts Oleg Artemyev, Sergey Korsakov, and Denis Matveev. Furthermore, the ISS Online continuously broadcasts from the International Space Station, providing a captivating spectacle.
Can Astronauts Be Seen Through a Telescope?
It is indeed possible to catch a glimpse of the International Space Station (ISS) in the night sky, but most people are uninterested in simply seeing a tiny speck. However, if you’re determined, you can attempt to enhance your viewing experience by using binoculars or, even better, a telescope – we recently provided guidance on where to find an affordable model. Nevertheless, even with the aid of such equipment, it’s highly unlikely that you’ll be able to see anything as the astronauts are located inside the spacecraft. Occasional spacewalks do occur, but they are performed with great caution due to the considerable amount of space debris orbiting the Earth. Amateur astronomers may occasionally spot astronauts, but such instances are exceedingly rare – let me share with you one such remarkable occurrence.
Astronauts can only be observed through a telescope in this manner.
What can be observed from space by astronauts
The crew of the International Space Station (ISS) has the privilege of observing many things. In 2015, Russian cosmonaut Oleg Artemyev mentioned that they have a clear view of the consequences of human activity. This is particularly evident in the case of environmental disasters, where the immediate impact is visible on our planet’s surface. However, the Great Wall of China cannot be seen from space due to its narrowness. While flying over China, astronauts can identify this iconic landmark based on the shadow it casts.
An oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico can be observed from space.
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SpaceX has plans to send regular individuals into Earth’s orbit and even give them the opportunity to venture into outer space by the end of 2022. Learn more about this mission here.
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Many individuals have the misconception that the International Space Station (ISS) is located in a distant, unreachable place, requiring specialized equipment to catch a glimpse of it, let alone capture it in a photograph. However, this notion is completely false. The ISS orbits above us multiple times a day, and spotting it is just as simple as spotting a regular passenger airplane. The key is knowing when and where to look. The brightness of the ISS can rival that of Jupiter and Venus, and its swift movement across the sky only adds to its captivating presence. In this article, I will provide you with information on how and when you can observe the ISS tonight in Moscow. Furthermore, I will explain how you can determine the timing of an ISS flyby for any other location and date, as well as touch upon the subject of photographing and filming the ISS.
What equipment is necessary for observing the ISS?
Telescopes and binoculars are not recommended for observing the ISS as they can actually be more of a hindrance. The ISS moves at a fast pace, making it difficult to track with high-magnification optical instruments. This animated image provides a glimpse of its speed.
Additionally, clear skies are essential for observing the ISS, which fortunately we have tonight:
… and a spacious area with a clear view to the southwest, south, and southeast (such as a supermarket parking lot, a sports field, a rooftop, etc.). The presence of bright streetlights will not be a hindrance, as the ISS is an extremely bright object. If you are feeling lazy and don’t want to step outside, you can still observe from a balcony or a window facing south.
In addition, you will need a synchronized watch and a compass (in case you are unfamiliar with the general directions at your chosen observation location).
When and where should you look?
The International Space Station (ISS) completes one revolution in approximately an hour and a half. This means that if the Earth was not rotating, we would see the ISS following the same path every hour and a half. However, due to the rotation of the Earth, the ISS appears to shift westward with each revolution. Additionally, the ISS is only visible when it is illuminated by the Sun, while the observer’s location is in darkness (although it is possible to spot the ISS during the day, it is more challenging). To determine the visible ISS flybys over Moscow today, I utilized the online service heavens-above.com (residents of other cities can easily access the visibility conditions for the ISS on their own). The most favorable observation time is expected at approximately 22:47 tonight..
In the city, the stars on the map are not very useful for navigation as they are difficult to see. It is more convenient to find our way by using a compass and referencing the cardinal directions. If you do not have a compass, you can determine the direction by observing where the sunset is fading, which will be in the northwest.
The International Space Station (ISS) will become visible at 22:42:30, but it is too early to start searching for it at this time. The brightness of the ISS at the horizon is not sufficient, and the view may be obstructed by trees, buildings, and haze. It is advisable to wait until it rises to at least 10 degrees above the horizon, which will occur at approximately 22:44:38, in the west-southwest direction. At this point, you will notice a dim, non-flickering star that is slowly moving left and upward. This star is actually the ISS, flying over France at a distance of 1,500 kilometers. If you are unable to see it at this moment, it is possible that a light cloud near the horizon or a slight miscalculation in your direction may have hindered your view. However, the star will soon become brighter and move faster, making it much easier to locate. The station will reach its maximum altitude of 40 degrees at 22:47:43, and it will be practically south in azimuth. At this time, the ISS will be positioned just below the star Altair, shining as brightly as Venus and moving at a similar speed to a jet airplane. The distance to the ISS will be approximately 600 kilometers. After reaching its peak altitude, the station will start descending towards the east and at 22:48:52, it will enter the Earth’s shadow. Due to the presence of the atmosphere, the brightness of the ISS will gradually fade for a few seconds before disappearing completely. Keen observers may also notice that before fading, the ISS will turn red, as the astronauts on board will be witnessing a sunset. Once the station is no longer visible, you can look to the east and you will be rewarded with the sight of the rising Moon as a bonus.
Please note: The times mentioned above will be accurate to the second for an observer in Red Square. If you are located far from the center, there may be slight differences in timing, typically a few seconds. For instance, in Reutov, the highest point in the sky will be reached 2 seconds later. However, the onset of the shadow will happen simultaneously for all observers.
Another flyby, which is less convenient for observation, will occur one orbit earlier, at 21:11. You can attempt to observe it first, but at 9 pm, it is still fairly bright, making it challenging to spot the ISS against the illuminated sky. Additionally, the station will only ascend to 28 degrees.
How to Capture a Photo or Video of the International Space Station (ISS)?
If you’re planning to witness the International Space Station (ISS) for the first time, I suggest refraining from taking photos for now. It’s advisable to simply observe it with your own eyes and familiarize yourself with its brightness and speed. On your next observation, perhaps tomorrow, you can bring along a camera. Adjust the camera settings to have a longer shutter speed of 10-30 seconds. Fine-tune the aperture and sensitivity to avoid overexposing the sky while still being able to capture the stars. Mount the camera on a tripod and aim it towards the anticipated path of the ISS flyby. A couple of minutes beforehand, you can take a test shot to ensure that you have the correct section of the sky in the frame, using the stars as your reference. By following these steps, you may be able to capture a shot similar to the one shown above (please note: the photo is not mine; I discovered it on Google Images).
If there is a predicted flyby in the vicinity of the Moon, it presents a great opportunity to capture a fascinating image. As an example, I was able to capture this stunning shot:
Here’s how it looked in motion (captured on a compact video camera, the Panasonic HDC-SD90).
What about the Moon and Sun transits mentioned earlier?
Lately, there’s been a lot of buzz on news portals about NASA releasing unique images of the ISS with the Moon in the background. Even Geektimes covered the story. However, there’s nothing particularly unusual about those photos. A quick search on Google Images using the keywords “iss transit” will show you similar images. I was able to capture a similar photo and video on my first attempt using relatively modest equipment (the same equipment I used in my previous article, “Watching the solar eclipse together”):
It’s best to view the video in full screen mode:
The primary issue lies in the fact that the shadow (or penumbra) cast by the ISS from either the Sun or the Moon is only a few kilometers in size. Encountering such a phenomenon randomly is exceedingly rare, so one must patiently await the opportune moment, hop in a vehicle, and drive several dozen kilometers. To determine when and where to go, the calsky.com service can be utilized. It provides a map displaying the path of the ISS’s shadow for the upcoming days. Below is a snippet of a map showcasing the closest transits on the Moon.
Summary
I anticipate that as a result of this article, numerous individuals will venture outside this evening and gaze at the celestial sphere. I propose sharing your experiences in the comments section!
All nations involved in the ISS project have backed the continuation of the station’s activities beyond 2024
The leader of NASA, Bill Nelson, has acknowledged that the International Space Station (ISS) is getting older. However, all countries involved in the ISS program, with the exception of Russia, have shown their support for extending its operation until 2030. Russia may choose to withdraw from the project in 2028. Once the ISS is no longer in operation, privately developed stations will have the opportunity to function in Earth’s orbit.
The US National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has announced that all countries participating in the International Space Station (ISS) program have agreed to extend its operation beyond 2024.
“NASA announced that the United States, Japan, Canada, and European Space Agency member countries have given their confirmation to support the extension of the station’s operation until 2030. Additionally, Russia has confirmed that it will support the extension until 2028,”
“U.S. experts have pledged to continue collaborating with station partners in order to ensure a smooth presence in low Earth orbit and a safe and organized transition from the space station to commercial platforms in the future,”
“By extending our stay on this incredible platform, we can continue to benefit from over two decades of experimentation and make even greater discoveries,” said Robin Gatens, director of the ISS division at NASA headquarters.
The office has also issued a press release stating that the partners of the ISS have made a commitment to “expand the activities of this one-of-a-kind platform.”
“It’s reaching the end of its lifespan.”
Despite this, the International Space Station is set to be deorbited between 2030 and 2031, as stated by NASA Administrator Bill Nelson during a hearing of the US House of Representatives Committee on Science, Space and Technology.
“We will be taking it out of orbit, as it is reaching the end of its lifespan. We plan to deorbit it in 2030-2031,” Nelson stated.
According to NASA’s Administrator, the future will see private companies operating in orbit. “That is why we are currently awarding contracts to multiple commercial companies for the development of commercial space stations,” he further added.
“Our goal is to collaborate with the private sector and share our knowledge and expertise to support them in creating secure, dependable, and cost-efficient space destinations,” said Phil McAllister, the director of private sector partnerships at NASA.
As outlined in NASA’s February 2022 plan, the space station will gradually descend starting in January 2031 and ultimately reenter the Earth’s atmosphere. The resulting debris will safely land in the uninhabited region of the Pacific Ocean known as Point Nemo, which is the farthest point from any landmass on Earth.
Russia’s Participation in the Space Station Project to Extend Beyond 2030
In July 2022, Moscow initially expressed its intention to withdraw from the project after 2024, but the specific date was not determined. However, “Roscosmos” later clarified that they will not rush to exit the project. On April 12, 2023, Yuri Borisov, the head of Roscosmos, announced during a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin that Russia will continue its involvement in the space station project until 2028.
Borisov further explained that the termination of the Russian segment of the ISS will be synchronized with the commencement of the construction of a new Russian orbital station. He claimed that the Russian counterpart of the ISS is expected to be completed by 2032, with an estimated construction cost of 600 billion rubles.
“This summer, the preliminary design will be completed,” stated the head of “Roscosmos.” He further elaborated that the upcoming changes in orbit and radiation conditions will enable us to delve deeper into space and acquire the necessary technologies for the lunar program.
Vladimir Kozhevnikov, the Chief Designer of the Russian Orbital Station, assured that the funding required for the creation and operation of the Russian equivalent of the ISS would be less than that of the International Space Station. However, he added that it is premature to discuss the exact amount needed for the station’s construction.
The International Space Station, which has been in orbit since November 20, 1998, serves as a versatile research complex and has been visited by 266 individuals from 20 different countries.
