Over the past few years, the increase in Starlink satellites launched by Elon Musk’s SpaceX has raised concerns among astronomers. These satellites orbit in low Earth orbit (LEO) and can interfere with telescopes. Their radio signals and light reflections make observations tricky.
A new study by NASA researchers highlights just how severe this issue has become. Led by astrophysicist Alejandro Serrano Borlaff, the research warns that even the Hubble Space Telescope may struggle to capture clear images. If current satellite launches continue, Borlaff estimates that one in every three images taken by Hubble could be affected by light pollution.
Right now, SpaceX has the green light from the US Federal Communications Commission to launch 12,000 satellites. They’re also seeking permission for an additional 30,000. Experts say we could see up to 500,000 satellites cluttering our skies within the next decade.
This wave of satellites isn’t just a problem for Hubble. Other future telescopes are expected to face worse challenges. For example, the European Space Agency’s ARRAKIHS mission, set to launch in the 2030s, could find that 96% of its images contain distracting light streaks. NASA’s SPHEREx, just launched, might see light pollution affect 99% of its observations.
The situation is urgent. To protect the astronomical community, international regulations need to be strengthened. Countries like the US, central to space activities, are slow to take action against these commercial satellite launches.
Astronomy may soon look very different if this trend continues. It’s a reminder that our quest for better internet can come at a significant cost to our understanding of the universe. For more details, you can check out the full study here.
For further insights on the impact of satellite proliferation, explore articles from The Guardian and Space.com.
