Question 1

Can I see the ISS from Washington, D.C.?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The International Space Station is the third-brightest object in the night sky and is easily visible from Washington, D.C., United States. It looks like a fast-moving bright star and is best seen within a couple of hours of sunrise or sunset. See the pass schedule above for exact times.

Question 2

What time does the ISS pass over Washington, D.C. tonight?

Accepted Answer

ISS pass times over Washington, D.C. change daily because the station orbits Earth every ~90 minutes. The schedule above is calculated for Washington, D.C. and lists upcoming visible passes with start time, direction and maximum elevation.

Question 3

How fast does the ISS move across the sky over Washington, D.C.?

Accepted Answer

The ISS travels at about 28,000 km/h and crosses the sky in roughly 2–5 minutes. From Washington, D.C. it appears as a steady, bright point of light moving in a straight line — it does not blink like an aircraft.

ISS Pass Times Over Washington, D.C. Tonight

ISS Passes Over Washington, D.C.

Find Passes for Your Location

Seeing the ISS from Washington, D.C.

ISS passes in other cities