Starlink is a satellite internet company that operates worldwide and is owned by SpaceX, the company founded by Elon Musk. These satellites are in low Earth orbit, which enables them to provide high-speed internet services with low latency.
Sometimes, you can see small bright dots in the sky, which are these Starlink satellites. It creates a stunning nighttime spectacle. If you’re interested in observing these satellites at specific times, there are applications available that can help you with that.
The proximity of the satellites to Earth makes them visible. When they are illuminated by the Sun while there is darkness or little light on Earth, they appear as bright points in the night sky due to reflections. This phenomenon allows some people to observe them for certain periods of time. The inclination and altitude of the satellite orbits constantly vary to maximize connectivity in diverse geographical areas and minimize congestion in specific regions of space.
However, seeing the satellites depends on the observer’s location and the position of the satellites in their orbit. Thankfully, there are designed applications that allow people to locate and track Starlink satellites.
One such app is “Satellite Tracker,” available for Android and Apple devices. It displays the location and identifies the satellites, enabling you to visualize their trajectory on the terrestrial map or the night sky in real-time. It also provides 3D models of the satellites in their current positions.
Another app called “Star Walk 2” was primarily designed for star observation but also displays the location of various celestial objects, including satellites. It allows you to find a satellite near your location by following the app’s instructions.
If you prefer a minimalist design, “Sky Tonight” is an app that allows you to easily search for satellites. One of its advantages is offering real-time sky tracking, showing you the exact moment when a satellite will be visible in your region.
To have the best chance to see the satellites:
– Find a location far from city lights to minimize light pollution.
– Use different apps or websites that provide real-time information about satellite positions. Some even send alerts when these celestial objects are near your location.
– While satellites can be seen with the naked eye, using binoculars or a telescope can provide more details.
Remember, seeing Starlink satellites is a unique experience, and using these apps can enhance your observation skills. So, get ready to witness the wonders of technology in the night sky.