THE International Space Station (ISS) makes a very welcome return to the evening sky this week.

Unlike many of the things 'up there' you don't need binoculars or a telescope to see the ISS it is clearly visible to the naked eye, looking like a bright star as it sails silently and majestically across the sky. Unlike airplanes, it doesn't blink or flash but shines with a steady light as it crosses the sky from west to east. Sometimes it travels from horizon to horizon, climbing very high into the southern sky and becoming strikingly bright before dropping towards the east and fading. At other times it barely clears the trees, or is snuffed out moments after appearing.

This week we will have some very bright passes to enjoy - if this awful, cloudy weather gives us the chance! Go outside on the following dates, at the times given, and look for a star rising up in the west. That will be the space station. You will then see it climb higher and slowly arc over to the east (left as you look at it). Tip: you will be able to see it from your garden, but if you can get to somewhere with a clear view towards the south, with no buildings, trees or fells to block the ISS from view, the ISS will look stunning. April 7: 20.46 and 22.22; April 8: 21.30 and 23.07; April 9: 20.38 and 22.14; April 10: 21.21 and 22.58; April 11: 22.06.