Bright object observation in Fleury-Merogis

Summary

On October 20, 2011, an amateur astronomer observed a bright point moving slowly from west to east. The object was particularly luminous and followed a clear trajectory toward the sky, disappearing within a few seconds. Although initially unusual, the case was classified as a probable sighting of the International Space Station (ISS). However, there was a slight discrepancy between the calculated disappearance time (21:03) and the observer's recorded time (21:10), as well as a difference in the maximum elevation observed (50° instead of the expected 60-70°). These deviations are explained by possible maneuvers of the ISS, which slightly alter its orbit and make precise predictions difficult.