The International Space Station (ISS) made a stunning appearance in the sky above Northeast Ohio on Friday night. According to local astronomer Jay Reynolds, the ISS could be seen rising in the west/southwest at 8:57 p.m., reaching its peak height of about 57 degrees at 9:01 p.m., and finally setting about 20 degrees above the northeast horizon at 9:03 p.m.
Reynolds described the best viewing experience as when the ISS gradually fades away. This sighting was perfectly timed with the clear skies and dropping temperatures in the low 60s, as forecasted by FOX 8 Meteorologist Mackenzie Bart.
The International Space Station is a habitable space station that orbits Earth and serves as a scientific research laboratory. It is a joint project between NASA, Roscosmos, JAXA, ESA, and CSA, with the main purpose of conducting experiments and observations in microgravity conditions. The ISS has been continuously occupied since November 2000 and has been visited by astronauts from multiple countries.
Keep an eye out for future opportunities to view the ISS in the night sky above Northeast Ohio. It is a truly awe-inspiring sight that reminds us of the incredible achievements and collaborations in space exploration.
Source: WJW News 8 Cleveland