The light is strictly reflected light from the sun. The ISS orbits well above the atmosphere, so there is no friction with the atmospheric gasses, and therefore no heat or light. It is really cool to see it fly over because it is easily the brightest star in the sky as it flies overhead.
Nice. I liked the 2001 waltz and the random kid commentary. Is the ship visible because of the suns reflection off it or because of heat generated by its speed?
The light is strictly reflected light from the sun. The ISS orbits well above the atmosphere, so there is no friction with the atmospheric gasses, and therefore no heat or light. It is really cool to see it fly over because it is easily the brightest star in the sky as it flies overhead.
aliendaddy32 3 years ago
Nice. I liked the 2001 waltz and the random kid commentary. Is the ship visible because of the suns reflection off it or because of heat generated by its speed?
piper4seeformerly 3 years ago