Re: Iridium 66 flare

From: Rod Sladen (rodsladen@crosswinds.net)
Date: Fri Aug 24 2001 - 05:34:36 PDT

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Steve Newcomb (snewcomb@mail2.gcnet.net) wrote:

> I get a prediction of -5 flare from iridflare program for 
> Iridium 66 at 22.01.10, but on Heavens Above it shows it 
> going in shadow at 22.01.05

If you look closely at the Iridflar output, you will notice that it shows "PnB"
(Penumbral) rather than "Lit" in the "Ill" (Illumination) column - i.e. the
satellite is within the earth's shadow, but not totally eclipsed.

Heavens-Above assumes a cut-off as the satellite starts to enter shadow.

> Will I see this if I am lucky enough to have clear skies?

Definitely *well worth* watching for!  Penumbral flares are often decidedly
red as a result of scattering of the sunlight through the atmosphere.

Best of luck for clear skies!
-- 
Rod Sladen, Beeston, Nottinghamshire, UK
52.9230N, 1.2190W

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