Lights from Space X Satellites which people have reported seeing

We've had a lot of texts and calls from listeners to WLR of late, who say they've seen what look like stars, all lined up in a row in the sky at certain times. Theories have abounded since then, but in case you think we're in a War of the Worlds scenario - Mick Guinan has emailed us with a more, well, earthly explanation. First though, have a look at this YouTube video, as an example of what people have been describing..

And thank you to Mick Guinan, who took the time to email Ollie and me on The Big Breakfast Blaa to not only give a detailed explanation, but also to give times over the coming week when you can go and see the "stars"..

So here's what Mick told us...

I thought I'd answer your query about recent sightings of "Strange lights in the sky" which some of your listeners were concerned about. The "lights" in this case are from the SpaceX Starlink constellation of satellites i.e. Starlink 4 which was launched on 17th February 2020. This "string" of satellites consists of 60 individual small satellites which are in a row and will gradually drift apart from each other.

This grouping of satellites were from the 4th launch and will eventually be part of an overall constellation of thousands of such satellites which will globally provide internet broadband to areas which have poor or no internet broadband coverage.

The satellites are lit by reflected sunlight which strikes them in their low Earth orbit (LEO) & that is one of the reasons why they are only seen at certain times.

In the Waterford City area, there will be a few upcoming opportunities to see these satellites as they cross the early morning sky which might suit early risers like you.

Thursday 5th March 2020 5h32m12s in the South / Southeast direction 5.4 magnitude. Disappears 5h36m01s East / Northeast horizon.

Friday 6th March 2020 5h50m33s in the South / Southeast direction 4.0 magnitude. Disappears 5h54m31s East / Northeast horizon.

Saturday 7th March 2020 6h10m21s in the West / Southwest direction 3.4 magnitude. Disappears 6h14m20s East / Northeast horizon.