Submitted by Pat Lightcap
Those interested in human space flight will be able to view the International Space Station (ISS) flying over Madison, Florida on Friday, February 18, 2011. Look to the SSW (south south west) at exactly 7:23 PM local time at 17 degrees above the horizon. ISS will go to a maximum elevation of 59 degrees as it moves across the evening sky to exit viewing in the ENE (east north east) at an elevation of 33 degrees. It will appear as the brightest planet moving briskly as it reflects the light of the setting sun. NASA estimates that it will be seen for three minutes before going out of sight. Licensed Amateur Radio Operators (Ham Operators) can attempt contact with the ISS crew using 437.800 mhz as the uplink frequency and listening on 145.800 mhz. Any person with a VHF scanner can listen on 145.800 mhz to hear any radio traffic. Hams can also try the crew on 145.200 mhz uplink and listen on 145.800 mhz for the simplex downlink. Please be aware that clouds will make viewing impossible so it is hoped that there will be clear skies.
