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How to See Satellites

There are hundreds of satellites in low Earth orbit. These can circle the globe in as few as 90 minutes, which means there are a few satellites passing overhead all the time. On dark nights it is possible to see them flying by. Following are the steps you need to follow to help you see satellites in the night sky.

Instructions

- 1
  Lie down in a clearing outside, facing south and look up. If you live in an area that has dark skies, all you have to do is watch the sky for objects that look like stars but are moving east to west.
- 2
  Visit a website that offers information on when satellites will be overhead in your area or download software that will tell you what satellites to look for. You will need to know your coordinates which you can find online.
- 3
  Use binoculars to help you view the sky in the area where the satellite will appear. Choose a night when the moon isn't up and there are no clouds.
- 4
  Watch for flares. Many satellites have solar panels or antennae that can catch sunlight as they travel across the sky. Iridium satellites produce especially bright flares.
- 5
  Begin looking for satellites shortly after sunset. Even though you are in the shadow of the Earth, satellites are high enough that they are still reflecting sunlight. As they move across the sky, they will suddenly disappear as they cross into Earth's shadow. Eventually, all satellites passing overhead are in the shadow and you won't be able to see any of them.

Astronomy