On July 8, 2025, at precisely 5:42 AM IST, Delhi residents were treated to a rare sight. The International Space Station (ISS) flew across the pre-dawn sky. Early risers gazed in awe as the ISS, a massive structure orbiting the Earth, moved quickly across the horizon. Captured by an iPhone 16 from Sainik Farms, the moment was documented for all to see. The ISS glowed brightly, resembling a star in the clear morning sky.
The ISS orbits Earth at an altitude of about 400 kilometres and travels at a speed of 28,000 kilometres per hour. It completes one full orbit every 90 minutes. This means astronauts aboard the ISS witness 16 sunrises and sunsets each day. Currently, Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is living aboard the ISS, representing India in this marvel of modern science and international collaboration.
In the coming days, the ISS will pass over Indian skies several times. While Captain Shukla will not be visible, the ISS will appear as a bright, fast-moving object. This gives many a chance to spot this incredible craft from below.
Captain Shukla has encouraged his fellow Indians to follow his journey from space. For those eager to see the ISS, tools like NASA’s “Spot the Station” app and the ISS Detector app can help track its movements and plan viewing times.
The ISS has orbited Earth for over 20 years, symbolizing international teamwork in space exploration. It serves as a research laboratory and a living space for astronauts. The station reflects sunlight, making it visible to observers on the ground, especially during dawn or dusk when the sky is still dark.
To improve your chances of spotting the ISS, consider these tips:
– Use NASA’s “Spot the Station” or the ISS Detector app to track the ISS in real-time.
– Check for upcoming passes in your area and hope for clear skies.
– Look for it during dawn or dusk for best visibility.
– Choose a location away from city lights for a clearer view.
The ISS is not just a scientific facility; it represents collaboration among 15 countries, including the US, Russia, and Japan. It is about the size of a football stadium and provides a unique opportunity for scientists to conduct experiments in microgravity.
The recent sighting in Delhi was particularly special. As the ISS flew overhead, many took to social media to share their excitement. One Instagram user, Azam Siddiqui, posted a video of the ISS, calling it a “silver dot gliding above.”
Skywatchers often find joy in tracking the ISS. With its fast pace, it can appear and disappear quickly, creating a thrilling experience for viewers. The sighting of the ISS brings together people, sparking interest in space and science.
As technology continues to advance, more people can engage with the wonders of space. The ISS offers a glimpse into the future of human exploration beyond Earth. Astronauts like Shubhanshu Shukla inspire the next generation to dream big and explore the universe.
In summary, the sighting of the ISS over Delhi is a reminder of our shared achievements in space exploration. It stands as a beacon of hope and innovation, encouraging people to look up and wonder about the possibilities that lie beyond our planet.
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