What key movement characteristic allows amateur spotters to differentiate the space station from an aircraft?
Answer
The space station does not blink
When differentiating the space station from common aerial traffic, the movement pattern is key. Aircraft lights often blink due to required navigation or warning lights, or they might appear unsteady. In contrast, the Tiangong station, when viewed across the celestial sphere, presents as a distinct dot of light moving slowly and continuously. Its stately, consistent movement, without any blinking, allows observers to rule out flickering aircraft or fleeting meteors.
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