The National Aeronautics and Space Administration recently launched its Spot The Station mobile app. It enables users to know the International Space Station’s location 24/7. Moreover, the program helps people learn about the ISS’s latest discoveries. As a result, NASA hopes it could promote public interest in space exploration and research.
Most people find outer space fascinating since we still have more things to discover in its ever-growing expanse. If you’re one of these folks, Spot The Station could satisfy your curiosity regarding what lies beyond the stars. Moreover, it’s a great educational tool that could help your kid while using their smartphones and tablets.
This article will discuss NASA’s Spot The Station app. Later, I will share some of the out-of-this-world developments on the ISS so that you get a sneak peek of what the app might offer.
What are the features of the Spot The Station app?
NASA launched its new mobile application on November 2, 2023. The space organization said it is an extension of its Spot The Station website that brings it closer to the public. Also, it has the following features:
- An augmented reality interface makes it easier for users to locate the station and provides options for capturing and sharing pictures and videos of their sightings in real time.
- Also, its AR compass shows where the space station is, no matter where you are.
- Users may register for mobile notifications whenever the ISS is approaching their location.
Robyn Gatens, the International Space Station director at NASA’s Washington HQ, discussed the appeal of the agency’s new app. “Even after 23 years of continuous human presence aboard the International Space Station, it’s incredibly exciting to see the station when you look up at just the right moment.”
“The orbiting laboratory that continues to provide so many unique tangible benefits for humanity really isn’t that far out of reach,” she added. Moreover, the NASA webpage explained why most people would need Spot The Station to view the ISS.
The International Space Station is visible when it reflects sunlight, like the Moon. Also, that means you may only see it before sunrise and after sunset.
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It must be dark where you are when the ISS happens to orbit overhead. Spot The Station lets you know when that will happen so that you can view it.
The space agency released the app in time for the International Space Station’s 25th anniversary. Moreover, it marks the joining of the Unity and Zarya modules on December 6, 1998.
The Spot The Station app is available on the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store. The best part is you can download it for free!
What are the latest ISS developments?
The International Space Station has been an essential platform for important space projects. For example, NASA used it to test a new water recovery system.
The Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) can turn 98% of waste into potable water. Christopher Brown, one of the people managing the Johnson Space Center’s life support system, lauded this breakthrough.
“This is a very important step forward in the evolution of life support systems. Let’s say you collect 100 pounds of water at the station. You lose two pounds of that, and the other 98% just keeps going around and around. Keeping that running is a pretty awesome achievement.”
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A few months later, the space agency tested its laser communications system on the ISS. It comprises the Integrated LCRD Low Earth Orbit User Modern and Amplifier Terminal (ILLUMA-T) and the Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD).
ILLUMA-T and LCRD use invisible infrared light to send and receive information at higher data rates than previous space comms. Soon, we may repurpose that technology for Earth use.
Unfortunately, the International Space Station is an aging platform. That is why NASA plans to deorbit the ISS in 2031 to replace it with a new station.
Conclusion
NASA launched the Spot The Station app to promote public interest in space research and exploration. The agency will decommission the ISS in a few years, so you only have a limited time to observe it.
The new mobile app gives you the opportunity to learn more about the platform before it retires. If you or someone you know like space, it is likely a worthwhile download.
It’s free, and it can show you more of the most recent space developments. You can also follow the latest digital tips and trends at Inquirer Tech.