INDIANA — Residents across Indiana are being encouraged to look up over the next two evenings as the International Space Station (ISS) is set to make two visible passes over the state, offering a brief but striking nighttime viewing opportunity. According to the latest viewing data, tonight’s pass will provide the best chance to see the ISS clearly, with more favorable sky conditions compared to tomorrow night, when increased cloud cover is expected.
Best Time and Direction to Watch Tonight
The ISS is expected to appear tonight at approximately 7:34 p.m. Eastern Time, moving from the southwest toward the northeast across Indiana’s sky. During this pass, the station will reach a maximum elevation angle of about 43 degrees, making it bright and relatively easy to spot for viewers with clear skies.
Sky conditions tonight are forecast to be partly cloudy, which should allow many areas to catch a clear glimpse of the station as it crosses overhead.
What Viewers Should Look For
Observers should watch for a single, bright, fast-moving dot of light traveling smoothly across the sky. Unlike airplanes, the ISS does not blink, and unlike meteors, it does not streak or burn out quickly. The entire pass typically lasts only a few minutes, so timing is important. No telescope or binoculars are required, as the ISS is visible to the naked eye under suitable conditions.
Second Pass Expected Tomorrow Night
A second pass is expected tomorrow evening around 6:46 p.m. Eastern Time, with the station traveling along a similar southwest-to-northeast path. While this pass will reach a higher maximum elevation, making it nearly overhead, cloud cover is expected to increase, which may limit visibility in some areas. As a result, meteorologists note that tonight remains the better viewing opportunity of the two.
Why the ISS Appears So Bright
The International Space Station appears bright because it reflects sunlight, even after sunset on the ground. These passes occur when the station is still illuminated by the sun while the sky below has darkened enough for it to stand out clearly.
Final Viewing Advice
Anyone hoping to see the ISS should step outside a few minutes before the scheduled time, face west or southwest, and allow their eyes to adjust to the dark. Clear breaks in the clouds will offer the best chance to catch the brief flyover.
NapervilleLocal.com will continue sharing notable skywatching events and regional weather updates to help readers stay informed about what to watch for overhead…