Did anyone see that???

[bkm2304]

Hi all,

I just saw a rather amazing thing. At approx 11.30pm I saw what I thought was an Iridium flare due south about 30 deg altitude. I am just North of Newcastle NSW. This changed after some seconds into two satellites (?) travelling NW. Then I saw another "flare" and this resolved into 2 "satellites" travelling about 3 deg from one another in a NE direction . They moved just west of Sirius before I lost them as they went behind the roof of the house. So, four objects that looked like very high satellites with flare activity. No Iridium flares are scheduled for this part of the world and the ISS was over China at the time. Did anyone else see this and does anyone have an explanation please?

Richard the puzzled. :shrug:

[leon]

Very interesting indeed Richard, I could not even hazard a guess mate but it would have been an event not to be repeated i expect.

Leon

[astroron]

Could this e what you saw ?
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-16223533
The time seems about right ?
Cheers :thumbsup:

[bkm2304]

Hi Ron,

I would say that was it! The objects/satellites would indeed be polar in their track when I think of it. Great to know I wasn't seeing things after all! Amazing that I caught the moment of deployment.

Thanks again, Ron.:thumbsup:

Richard

[astroron]

Hi Richard,yes you are one lucky observer:D
It always pays to have a Pair of Binoculars with you as well at all times if possible ;)
Well done on your oservation.
Cheers:thumbsup: