How can I track the ISS from my location?

Use LaunchDetect (https://launchdetect.com/best-iss-tracker/) on web or mobile. Allow location permission, then open Tonight's Sky to see every visible ISS pass for the next 7 days with countdown, peak elevation, magnitude, and sky direction. Enable push alerts for bright passes. NASA's free Spot the Station app is a single-purpose alternative.

What does the ISS look like from the ground?

A brilliant white moving star, brighter than every star and most planets (peak magnitude -3 to -5 on a great pass). It moves steadily across the sky in 3-6 minutes, does not blink, does not have navigation lights. If it blinks, it's an aircraft, not the ISS.

How fast is the ISS moving overhead?

The ISS orbits Earth at approximately 28,000 km/h (17,500 mph) — fast enough to cross the sky in 3 to 6 minutes from horizon to horizon. It does not move like an airplane (slower, lower) or a satellite (often dimmer). The ISS is a fast, bright, steady moving point.

How to track the ISS from your location.

Five steps. About 3 minutes to set up. The ISS will pass over your house multiple times this week — most people just don't know when.

1Open LaunchDetect or another ISS tracker

Go to LaunchDetect's ISS tracker or install the iOS/Android app. Allow location permission.

2Find tonight's visible passes

Tonight's Sky shows every visible ISS pass for the next 7 days with start time, peak elevation, peak magnitude, sky direction.

3Pick a bright pass

Peak elevation > 30°, magnitude brighter than -2. Those are brilliantly naked-eye visible.

4Set a push alert

Enable ISS bright-pass alerts. Notification fires ~15 minutes before pass start.

5Step outside, look up

The ISS is a brilliant white moving star — does not blink, crosses sky in 3-6 minutes. Use AR Replay to point your phone at the exact orbital trail.