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To see where the International Space Station (ISS) is now or find a possible viewing pass near you, use NASA’s Spot the Station website or app. For the current crew, check NASA’s latest dated mission update: crew rosters change, and NASA notices dated July 2026 do not verify who is aboard on October 4, 2026.
Where is the ISS right now?
NASA’s live ISS tracking map displays the station’s current position, its path over the previous 90 minutes, and a projection for the next 90 minutes. The shaded area marks nighttime on Earth. It is the quickest way to check the station’s position on a map.
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When will the ISS pass over my location?
Use NASA’s Spot the Station service to choose a location and see upcoming viewing opportunities. NASA says its app provides real-time tracking, flyover schedules, and alerts. The service reports times in local time.
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1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches- Above the Horizon: How long the station is expected to remain visible before it drops below your horizon.
- Maximum Height: The pass’s greatest elevation in degrees. The horizon is 0°; directly overhead is 90°.
- Appears and Disappears: The directions in which the station enters and leaves your view.
A pass is generally easiest to see within a few hours before or after sunrise or sunset, when the sky is dark enough for the sunlit station to stand out. NASA describes it as a bright, steady moving object, without flashing lights or abrupt changes in direction. Visibility still depends on your location, the pass’s elevation, darkness, and an unobstructed line of sight. The station orbits at an inclination of 51.6°, so it does not pass directly overhead at locations farther north or south. NASA says it completes 16 orbits each day. NASA Spot the Station
#1 Best Overall
- Challenge your construction skills with this LEGO Ideas ISS (21321) display model, featuring 2 rotating joints with 8 adjustable ‘solar panels’, posable Canadarm2 and other authentic details to discover as you build
- This ISS model comes with a stand, 2 astronaut microfigures, a brick-built mini NASA space shuttle and 3 mini cargo spacecrafts to create a spectacular display and rekindle nostalgic memories of childhood LEGO projects
- Includes a 148-page booklet featuring fascinating facts about the International Space Station, the spaceship model’s fan creator and LEGO designer, and a celebration of the LEGO Ideas theme’s 10th anniversary
- A super treat for yourself, birthday present or holiday gift idea for space fans, adults aged 16+ or any experienced LEGO builder, this 864-piece set offers hours of creative fun, whether built solo or with friends
- This ISS (International Space Station) toy building kit for adults, measuring over 7” (20cm) high, 12” (31cm) long and 19” (49cm) wide, makes a beautiful display model that will catch the eye of every passerby
How can I track the ISS with technical orbit data?
NASA’s ISS Trajectory Data page provides the current Orbit Ephemeris Message (OEM) in TXT and XML formats. The OEM contains state vectors in the Mean of J2000 frame at four-minute intervals over a 15-day span, with two-second intervals during reboosts. It also includes planned maneuvers and visiting-vehicle events.
This is a technical data source for readers or software that can interpret orbital state vectors, rather than a simple map for casual viewing. NASA flight controllers update the prediction about three times a week; atmospheric drag causes its accuracy to degrade over time. Use the map for a quick position check and Spot the Station for local viewing opportunities.
Rank #2
- 🛰️ REALISTIC MODEL INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION - ISS space station is a modular space station in low earth orbit. The ISS is the embodiment of the most advanced technological achievements of earthlings. Paying tribute to the engineering genius of the creators of the artificial celestial body, the designers of Metal Time have created a prefabricated model of the Astronaut Lodge of the space research station.
- 🛰️ HANDS and SPATIAL PERCEPTION EXERCISE - Our international space station model kit is excellent for hands and spatial perception because it consists of 229 different parts. To assemble the ISS model, you will need to be patient and study the structure of a real space station. Knowing the name and purpose of each module, it will be twice as interesting to assemble them with your own hands.
- 🛰️ KEY FEATURES ASTRONAUTS LODGE - This model of the ISS space station is equipped with an electric motor that allows the structure to rotate around its axis. You can also manually adjust the tilt angle of the station to the surface on which it is located. Each model of the space station has a customized business card holder with an engraved Earth relief.
- 🛰️ PREMIUM QUALITY and EASY ASSEMBLY - Precise cutting of the modular space station model eliminates the possibility of cuts during assembly. All parts are precisely matched to each other and will not create connection problems. The ISS model is made of environmentally friendly stainless steel. Pleasant tactile sensations, durability, and aesthetics of brushed metal distinguish metal 3D puzzles from other constructors.
- 🛰️ UNUSUAL INTERIOR DECORATION and UNIQUE GIFT - Our 3d metal model Astronauts Lodge is the most extraordinary interior decoration, surpassing space ships in TV series in originality. ISS space 3D model is a unique gift for those who are interested in the space achievements of mankind, fans of science fiction, and complex engineering structures.
Who is currently aboard the ISS?
A crew list needs a publication date. The latest specific NASA crew notices available here are from July 2026, so they do not establish the roster on October 4, 2026. Check NASA’s newest station crew announcement and use its date when stating who is aboard.
For context, NASA reported on July 14, 2026, that Anil Menon, Pyotr Dubrov, and Anna Kikina arrived on Soyuz MS-29, bringing the station crew to 10 for about two weeks. They joined the Expedition 74 crew NASA listed as Jessica Meir, Jack Hathaway, Chris Williams, Sophie Adenot, Sergey Kud-Sverchkov, Sergei Mikaev, and Andrey Fedyaev. NASA’s July 14 announcement
Rank #3
- Authentic & Intricate ISS Replica: Build a detailed wooden ISS model with command module, solar arrays, radar, thrusters, and display base, precision-cut pieces and crisp UV printing deliver exceptional realism for wooden model kits for adults
- Interactive Motorized Features: One-touch activation brings your ISS to life: solar panels rotate, radar spins, thrusters pivot, LED lights glow in key modules (including crew cabin), and space-themed sound effects create an immersive experience
- Vivid Wooden Model Kit Assembly: Built using traditional mortise-and-tenon joinery, no glue or tools needed. 511 PCS pre-cut wooden parts snap together securely, offering a frustration-free experience for wooden models to build and architecture model kits for enthusiasts
- Premium Craftsmanship & Display Ready: Made from high-quality basswood with smooth edges and fine structures. Assembled size: 13.0*9.6*10.7(inches), a stunning centerpiece for space fans, collectors and lovers of celestial space model
- STEM Gift & Relaxing Hobby: This 3D wooden puzzle blends astronomy, mechanics, and creativity. The 12-hour build job offers stress relief, improves focus, and inspires future engineers, sent your birthday, holiday, or Christmas greetings and blessings
NASA reported on July 26 that Chris Williams, Sergey Kud-Sverchkov, and Sergei Mikaev departed aboard Soyuz MS-28. At the July arrival, NASA said the Soyuz MS-29 trio was expected to spend about eight months aboard and return in April 2027; that was a plan, not confirmation of a later departure. These dated updates describe the July chronology, not the October roster. NASA’s July 26 report NASA’s July 14 announcement
Quick Recap
Best Value
- UNASSEMBLED HOBBY MODEL KIT – with easy to follow instructions. Ideal for ages 14 and up.
- NO GLUE OR SOLDER NEEDED – Parts can be easily clipped from the metal sheets. Bundle includes tweezers, which are recommended for bending and twisting the connection tabs.
- PREMIUM SERIES INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION - 3 Sheet Model with a challenging difficulty level. Once assembled, dimensions are 7.75 L x 5.76 W x 4.53 H inches.
- FROM STEEL SHEETS TO 3D – Pop out the pieces and connect using tabs and holes. Includes illustrated instructions.
- HIGHLY DETAILED ETCHED MODEL – Display your 3D model once completed - collect and build them all.
Rank #4
- HOBBY MODEL KITS – Unassembled models packed in an envelope with easy to follow instructions. Ideal for ages 14 and up
- NO GLUE OR SOLDER NEEDED – Parts can be easily clipped from the metal sheets. Tweezers are the recommended tool for bending and twisting the connection tabs.
- PREMIUM SERIES SPACE SHUTTLE LAUNCH KIT - 3 Sheet Model with a moderate difficulty level. Once assembled, dimensions are 3.54 W x 4.13 L x 6.70 H inches. 1:342 Scale.
- PREMIUM SERIES INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION - 3 Sheet Model with a challenging difficulty level. Once assembled, dimensions are 7.75 L x 5.76 W x 4.53 H inches.
- FROM STEEL SHEETS TO 3D – Pop out the pieces and connect using tabs and holes. Includes illustrated instructions
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