Starlink satellites in May: Can you see Starlink tonight? UK SpaceX Starlink tracker – Express.co.uk, Express.co.uk
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The SpaceX satellites were visible towards the end of April, baffling many stargazers who did not know what they were seeing. SpaceX has so far launched 2019 satellites into orbit as Elon Musk , , expands his constellation of internet-beaming satellites. The Starlink constellation, which has been branded an eyesore by astronomers , could one day number , 12 satellites .
And though Starlink sightings are not always guaranteed across the UK, many stargazers have reported bright trains in the night skies.
One person tweeted: “@VirtualAstro at last! Saw 60 Starlink 5 go over SW London, light pollution and all! So chuffin ‘excited! “
Another person said:” It’s not often you can look up into the night sky and see tens of #satellites passing overhead in succession.
“Counted 60 of the # Starlink-5 sats that just flew over London. Pretty impressive sight. Thanks @VirtualAstro! “
Starlink satellites: Can you see the SpaceX satellites from the UK?
(Image: PA / FINDSTARLINK.COM)
Starlink satellites: The SpaceX satellites will one day count , (Image: PA GRAPHICS)
Can you see Starlink tonight? Starlink satellites are launched. in batches of 151, each named Starlink-1, Starlink-2, Starlink-3, and so on.
The newer batches are easier to spot at night because their orbits are lower but will rise in time.
On average, the Starlink satellites race around the globe at heights of about 505 miles.
As a result, the satellite trains can be hard to spot, particularly, if you live in a densely populated area.
Light pollution is always an astronomers’ biggest enemy.
According to the Starlink tracker FindStarlink.com, viewing conditions tonight (May 4) are poor and will likely remain this way for the next five days.
You can also use the website to check a live map of the orbital paths the satellites are following.
However, keep in mind there is no guarantee the satellites will be reflective enough to be seen.
The Starlink satellites complete a lap around the planet once every minutes, meaning a Starlink train visible at 9pm should be visible again at (pm.)
The website’s creator said: “Many reports of failed sightings were received for Starlink this week. I’m very sorry it did not work out.
“After investigating – and with Dr Marco Langbroek’s guidance – it seems to have been caused by not taking into account the shape and possible orientation of the Starlink satellites.
“The software has been fixed, and I hope that solves most of the problems, but There are still no guarantees you’ll see Starlink.
“I’ve been wrong before and I’ll continue monitoring this. I apologize for the inconvenience , and understand how annoying it must be to try several times and not see anything. “
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