ICESat's orbit was changed recently and is now in a 91 day repeating ground track orbit as opposed to the previous 8 day repeat with widely spaced ground tracks.. Assuming the repeating ground tracks get evenly spaced around the earth over the 91 days the tracks should be spaced approximately 14 miles apart at 40 degrees north. So with some patience ICESat may come close to you. I believe the laser is planned to be powered off around 12 November and turned back on in March 2004. I have observed the laser three times now and for good viewing suggest getting as close to the ground track as possible, hope for some thin clouds, and look directly towards zenith. When skis were clear observers have reported seeing only a brief green flash at zenith but when there is some cloudiness to scatter the beam the pass is much more interesting. This is likely the only satellite observation that is better with clouds. . Gregg Hendry ----------------------------------------------------------------- To unsubscribe from SeeSat-L, send a message with 'unsubscribe' in the SUBJECT to SeeSat-L-request@satobs.org List archived at http://www.satobs.org/seesat/seesatindex.html
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