When can you see the ISS over Nelson?
ISS over Nelson: Next Pass 18:18 (W→SE) at 28.1° for about 10 min .
This is our current prediction for the next visible ISS pass over Nelson. The International Space Station will be visible from Nelson starting at 18:18.
We don't see any visible passes over Nelson for the next 36 hours. Check back later!
Updated: 08:46 · Night of 2026-06-17 (local) · Timezone: Pacific/Auckland
Local Viewing Conditions
Rural / Semi-Rural
Decent darkness with some light domes.
Stars to look for this month
Look overhead for Scorpius dominating the zenith.
- Scorpius
- Sagittarius
- Lupus
Tonight’s Viewing Conditions
No visible pass
No visible pass tonight
No pass meeting visibility criteria was found for tonight.
Viewing tips
Viewing tip: Step away from direct streetlights and let your eyes adjust to the darkness for a few minutes.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18:18 | Night | 28.1° | 10 min |
43%
18:00
|
0 mm |
| 19:56 | Night | 14.7° | 9 min |
66%
20:00
|
0 mm |
How to spot the next ISS pass
Applies to: 18:18 (local)
| Time (Local) | Starts | Max Height | Ends |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18:18 NEXT | W (276°) | 28.1° | SE (130°) |
| 19:56 | WSW (243°) | 14.7° | SE (124°) |
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
It has been continuously inhabited by humans since November 2, 2000.
Explore Nearby Cities
Tip: Go outside a few minutes before pass time with a clear horizon and minimal direct glare.