Iridium Flares

Does it still count as astronomy if it isn't really a star or any other form of celestial event? I don't know, but these little devils can still be quite impressive if you catch the right ones. Iridium Flares are actually satellites in Motorola's Iridium communication network. There's roughly eighty of them, & can be seen from nearly any location about five days out of the week. The 'flare' is actually a reflection cast off one of a passing satellites solar panel, & varies in intensity. Imagine someone from a great distance angling a mirror & reflecting a beam of sunlight back at you. These passes can be predicted at Heavens Above. Timing is crucial for imaging these guys, & is something I'm still working on. This first shot I took on 12/22/03, & is my best so far.

A small section of a pic where I was able to catch it from start to finish. It wasn't very long after twilight, which is why the shot is a bit bright.

This later shot was a much more aggressive approach, with a much more deliberate attempt to hone in on the exact predicted locaiton of the satellite & precisely catch it as it flares. When you look at this image, keep in mind its travelling from right to left, & not 'shooting' the other way. The exposure began when the flare was already brightening, & dimmed as it travelled to the left.

Iridium Flare animation: check this link to see one in action. Pardon the camera wiggle. Warning: 770KB file -- hope you've got broadband! :-)