When can you see the ISS over Nelson?
No visible passes are currently predicted for the next few days.
The best opportunity in the next 36 hours is 2026-03-16 06:55. It will reach 12° elevation. (Twilight pass that stays low and low cloud cover.) There is 1 visible pass predicted in total.
Updated: 05:02 · Night of 2026-03-14 (local) · Timezone: Pacific/Auckland
Local Viewing Conditions
Rural / Semi-Rural
Decent darkness with some light domes.
Stars to look for this month
Look south for the Southern Cross (Crux) high in the sky.
- Crux
- Carina
- Vela
Tonight’s Viewing Conditions
Next visible pass
Look up at 2026-03-16 06:55
Moves NNW → NNW. Peaks at 12°.
Forecast cloud cover: 1%.
Viewing tips
Starts at 2026-03-16 06:55. Appears NW (327°) and moves toward NW (335°). Peaks at 12° (very low near the horizon).
Conditions are evaluated using cloud cover, moon phase, and ISS elevation.
Visible ISS passes in the next 36 hours
| Time (Local) | Visibility | Max Height | Duration | Cloud Cover | Precipitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No visible ISS passes in the next 36 hours. | |||||
How to spot the next ISS pass
Applies to: — (local)
Pass details will appear once predictions are loaded.
| Time (Local) | Starts | Max Height | Ends |
|---|---|---|---|
| No upcoming visible passes. | |||
Viewing Gear Guide
Binoculars
While the ISS is visible to the naked eye, a pair of 10x50 binoculars can reveal more structure detail.
Photography
To capture the ISS light trail, use a tripod and a long exposure (10-30 seconds).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you see the ISS through clouds?
No, the ISS is not visible through thick clouds. If cloud cover is low, you may still catch it through breaks.
How much cloud cover is too much?
Above ~80% cloud cover, viewing is usually difficult. Best results are typically with 0-20% cloud cover.
How accurate is the forecast?
Pass timing is highly accurate. Weather can shift quickly, so re-check cloud cover close to the pass.
What does visible pass mean?
A visible pass means the ISS is sunlit while your sky is dark enough to see it.
ISS fact of the day
The ISS is a partnership between five space agencies: NASA, Roscosmos, JAXA, ESA, and CSA.
Explore Nearby Cities
Tip: Go outside a few minutes before pass time with a clear horizon and minimal direct glare.