Observe a Satellite Discussion

Every night hundreds of satellites fly across the sky. If you simply look up to a dark sky and patiently watch, you can probably see a satellite in just a few minutes (so long as you know what to look for). For a reminder of what a satellite looks like in the sky, re-watch the video Satellites in my Backyard.

Under normal circumstances, you won’t see a bunch of bright satellites in a row like I did, but with some careful planning, you can definitely see at a bright satellite on any given night - and that’s exactly what you’re going to do for this discussion. Watch this teacher video for a detailed explanation of how to complete this activity. You will use the website Heavens-Above to plan your observations. (Please note that this activity must be completed on a clear night. Cloudy weather is not an acceptable excuse for failing to participate. :) Just try again on the next clear night.)

After observing your satellite, come back to the discussion board and share one (or more) of the following:

A photograph (or link to a video) that you captured of the satellite you observed in the sky, or
A written description and sketch of your satellite observation (When and where did you see it? How did its visibility compare to your expectations?), or
Share some details about the satellite you observed (What was it?, What does it look like up close?, Where was it launched from?), or
What opinions do you have about the proliferation of satellites and its potential impact on astronomy. Here’s a NY Times story about how mega constellations of satellites are impacting ground-based telescopes.

You have a lot of choice in how you participate. I look forward to a lively discussion.