Space station visible from Ireland

Budding astronomers were today urged to cast their eyes skywards for a glimpse of the Space Shuttle Discoveryand the $100 billion International Space Station.

David Moore of Astronomy Ireland said both craft could be seen as extremely bright star-like objects blazing across the sky.

Mr Moore said the space shuttle had undocked from the station in preparation for its landing back on Earth tomorrow night.

"I have seen International Space Station being chased by a shuttle in the past and it is one of the most incredible sights I have ever seen - so we want everyone in Ireland to witness this rare and spectacular event," Mr Moore said.

He called on everyone to go outdoors each evening until January 3rd next to catch a glimpse of the spectacle. "Normal eyesight and a clear sky over the next 10 days is all you need," he said.

On board the space shuttle there are seven astronauts, while the station houses two men and a woman who will spend all of Christmas in space.

The space station, which was launched in November 1998, is made up of 450 tonnes of hardware making it the biggest manmade space object. Mr Moore said its $100 billion price tag also makes it the most expensive object ever built.

View : http://space.newscientist.com/article/dn10842-weather-could-force-shuttle-landing-detour.html&cid=1111526525

Private individuals are able purchase a 10-day stay on the station for $20 million.