Viewing the ISS from Barmouth

Pictures don't do justice to the viewing of the International Space Station (ISS) from Barmouth beach, so I thought I'd try words instead.

Walk from the promenade through the sand dunes to the edge of the dunes by the sea which is at high tide.  The air is very still and quiet.  The edge of the dunes is now more of a cliff face than a dune thanks to the storms that battered them in February.  Below the dunes is the sea, sky blue and gently lapping against the shore, with an occasional crash just to remind you of its power.  To the north west is the Lleyn Peninsula with the remnants of the setting sun.  The clouds and sky are various shades of orange.  The rest of the sky is a very very deep blue, crystal clear.  Many stars are making their appearance.  As you stare at an emerging star you wonder if it is actually moving or not.  To the south east is Cadair Idris.  The clouds just above it are lit up by the moon which is about to rise.  To the east is the town watched over and protected by the mountains behind.

It is time for the ISS to appear.  Far out over the sea a white pinpoint of light appears heading towards you.  Is it a plane?  No, it is moving too fast.  Is it a meteor?  No, it is going too slowly.  It must be the ISS.  It carries on, right overhead towards the town.  Shrieks of excitement from jubilant tourists can be heard coming from the prom. Then the ISS heads down to the mountains and disappears, all in a matter of minutes.