Early risers in North America and Europe will have a rare opportunity to witness a striking sight in the predawn skies on December 24th and 25th: a bright, fast-moving light that resembles no ordinary aircraft. Unlike planes, this object emits no blinking lights nor leaves a visible trail. Instead, it appears abruptly, moves steadily, and fades within minutes.
What is it? The phenomenon is caused by the International Space Station (ISS) reflecting sunlight as it orbits Earth every 90 minutes. The timing of these passes coincides perfectly with the excitement of Christmas morning, making it appear as if something special is moving across the sky.
The ISS is one of the brightest objects visible from Earth. Its large surface area catches sunlight, creating a brilliant, reflective flash that can be seen with the naked eye under clear conditions. No binoculars or telescopes are needed.
Where and When to Look:
To maximize your chances of spotting this “Christmas flyby,” check clear sky conditions and head outside before sunrise. Below are some optimal viewing times over major cities, sourced from AstroViewer.net:
| City | Date | Time (Local) |
|---|---|---|
| New York | Dec. 24 | 6:15 AM |
| London | Dec. 25 | 7:30 AM |
| Los Angeles | Dec. 24 | 5:45 AM |
| Tokyo | Dec. 25 | 8:00 AM |
The ISS’s orbit makes it a fleeting but beautiful spectacle. Whether you interpret it as a seasonal wonder or a reminder of space exploration, the bright light is a simple, accessible marvel to witness.
The ISS is a testament to human ingenuity, and its visibility from Earth serves as a beautiful reminder of our connection to space. This Christmas, look up and enjoy the show.
