Why can’t I see a predicted satellite pass?
Understand elevation, illumination, and weather before observing.
Above the horizon does not mean visible
A satellite can pass above you while it is in Earth’s shadow or while the sky is too bright.
What is elevation?
The horizon is 0° and directly overhead is 90°. Buildings, trees, and haze can obscure low passes. A higher minimum elevation removes low passes but reduces the number of results.
Check the weather
The website displays current weather, not a forecast for each pass. Clear skies alone do not make a faint satellite visible.
Predictions can change
Orbit data changes and satellites may maneuver. Check the location, time, and data again before observing.
