This page gives a table of opportunities to see a particular satellite over the given time period. Only passes which reach an elevation of at least 10° are shown, because lower ones are difficult to observe. First, the information about the search period (currently limited to 10 days), observers location and time zone are given as usual, and also some summary orbit data.

Here is an example of the table listing the visible passes followed by a description of each column;

Date

The date when the pass occurs. Clicking on it dispalys the Pass Details page.

Brightness

A magnitude estimate, if available, of the magnitude of the satellite at the maximum elevation of the pass. If there is no estimate available, a question mark will appear in this column. Please remember that this is only a rough estimate, and there are usually unpredictable factors, concerned with the attitude of the satellite which could lead to significant deviations from this value. Remember that lower values correspond to brighter passes than high values.

Start

The start time, which is defined either as the time when the satellite reaches an elevation angle of 10° or, if it is then still in shadow, when it leaves the Earth's shadow.

Highest point

These three columns give the time, elevation and azimuth at the highest point of the pass. This corresponds to the highest elevation of the satellite when sunlit, and therefore visible.

End

The last three columns give the time and location at the end of the pass. This is defined similarly to the start, i.e. when the satellite drops below 10° or enters into shadow if that happens first.

Developed and maintained by Chris Peat, Heavens-Above GmbH. Please read the FAQ before sending e-mail. Imprint.