Satellite Constellations: An Existential Threat for Astronomy?

A growing number of swarms of satellites are outshining the stars, and scientists fear no one will do anything to stop it. Activities in near-Earth space are becoming increasingly privatized, with the number of satellites in low-Earth orbit predicted to grow dramatically from about 2,000 to over 100,000 in the next decade due to the launch of planned satellite constellations.

As low-Earth orbit fills with constellations of telecommunications satellites, astronomers are trying to figure out how to do their jobs. The satellites' glinting solar panels and radio bleeps all but obscure many cosmic objects, bringing more radio interferences to cutting-edge antenna arrays dedicated to understanding our universe.

To discuss this sensitive topic, we invited an astronomer, an engineer and an entrepreneur to gather peacefully and share their thoughts on this change to our dark sky, describe their work to mitigate the impact of those constellations and how it will change how astronomers work forever. Emma Louden is an astrophysicist, strategist, and speaker currently at Yale University as a Ph.D. candidate in astrophysics. Federico Di Vruno is the Spectrum Manager at the SKA Observatory and the Co-Director of the IAU Centre for the Protection of the Dark and Quiet Sky from Satellite Constellation Interference. Matthew Goodman is an engineer, entrepreneur, and imaging scientist who runs Exclosure, a space situational awareness company.

Will the future be one in which the sky is constantly twinkling everywhere from all of these satellites, or will we overcome this issue and keep the sky dark and full of stars for future generations?

Simon Steel, Deputy Director of the Carl Sagan Center at the SETI Institute, moderated this discussion.

Emma Louden is an astrophysicist, strategist, and speaker. She is currently at Yale University as a Ph.D. candidate in astrophysics, pursuing a thesis focused on the dynamics and architecture of exoplanetary systems. She has a passion for space mission design, organizational strategy, & philanthropic work focused on women’s empowerment.
Federico Di Vruno

Federico Di Vruno is the Spectrum Manager at the SKA Observatory and the Co-Director of the IAU Centre for the Protection of the Dark and Quiet Sky from Satellite Constellation Interference. Before his involvement in Radio Astronomy, he worked in the space industry, specifically in electromagnetic compatibility and radio frequency interference in communication and scientific spacecraft.

Matthew Goodman is an engineer, entrepreneur, and imaging scientist. He currently runs Exclosure, a space situational awareness company, which focuses on the optical tracking of near Earth objects. He enjoys silly math problems, building high voltage art, and complaining about timekeeping standards.

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Видео Satellite Constellations: An Existential Threat for Astronomy? канала SETI Institute