Millions prepare to see the ISS fly over eastern U.S. and Canada on Thursday

On Thursday evening, the International Space Station (ISS) will make a bright flight across the skies of the eastern United States and selected regions in Canada. This remarkable event is scheduled to occur just after sunset, presenting an easy viewing opportunity for countless residents. Beginning at around 9:23 p.m. EDT, observers in cities such as New York City, Philadelphia, Boston, and Washington, D.C. will be able to witness the ISS as it travels across the sky. The station will reach its zenith at approximately 9:26 p.m. before disappearing from view by 9:29 p.m. People will not need a telescope to see the ISS, which is known for its bright, steady white light. Unlike the blinking lights of airplanes or the faint gleam of stars, the ISS stands out in the night sky, making it easily identifiable. The orbiting outpost currently hosts seven astronauts, all of whom contribute to various scientific and operational activities. At an altitude of about 260 miles, the ISS circles the Earth at a remarkable speed of around 17,500 mph, completing a full orbit roughly every 90 minutes. This event is part of a broader significance associated with human exploration and cooperation in space. The presence of the ISS symbolizes international collaboration in scientific research and technological innovation. As residents prepare to gaze upward, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing advancements in space exploration and the united efforts of multiple nations involved in operating and maintaining the ISS. For many individuals, this will be the first opportunity to observe the ISS, enhancing public interest in space science. The event highlights not only the capabilities of human ingenuity but also the accessibility of such experiences for the general public. The combination of the ISS’s visibility and the excitement surrounding the astronauts on board is likely to inspire many about the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.