NERC Space Geodesy Facility

Predictions of Bright Satellites for the UK

Predictions of the circumstances of passes of a comprehensive set of naked-eye satellites are computed daily by the NERC Space Geodesy Facility, and may be viewed or copied. The predictions give the time and direction in the sky of each satellite as it rises and sets, the direction of the satellite in the sky when at maximum elevation above the horizon and the times (if any) of entering or leaving eclipse by the Earth's shadow.

Please click the map below to view current predictions. You should choose predictions for the town closest to where you wish to observe, perhaps looking also at the second closest to estimate the generally small effect on the predictions of changing your location on the Earth.

In addition, extra files and more detailed predictions are provided to give up-to-date DAILY predictions for passes of the International Space Station. Since these predictions are generated DAILY, the effects of frequent orbital manoeuvres and unpredictable drag forces should be minimised. Ensure that you use the latest prediction set.

The quoted magnitudes of some of these objects are fairly uncertain. Any brightness observations would be welcome!

Note that you may have to hit 'reload' on your browser to ensure that you see the most recent data

Please let us know if you find any of these predictions of interest. Should you have any comments regarding the presentation of the predictions, please contact us.

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NERC Space Geodesy Facility, Herstmonceux