SpaceX to Make Star Satellites Dimmer to Lessen Impact on Astronomy: Report

[Admin]

SpaceX has a fix in play to make its bright Star satellites less disruptive to astronomy.

SpaceX to Make Star Satellites Dimmer to Lessen Impact on Astronomy: Report : Read more

 

[Phantom-e]

It seems to me that 42000 satellites, even if they're non-reflective, still may cause a problem with blocking the view.

 

[RussInMiraMesa]

Actually, given that these satellites are in low earth orbit (under 250 miles), the uproar seems slightly overblown, since they are really only visible for an hour or two after sunset and before sunrise, while they are illuminated by the sun.

I agree that these satellites encroach on observations by reducing the astronomical observation window -- but they don't close that window.

 

[rod]

Low earth orbit I think is only for StarLink satellites test phase, then higher orbits follow. Professional observatories already recorded images of multiple starlink *stuff* moving by during the observation runs. Various amateur astronomers observing are reporting problems like this too. It is not uncommon for me when stargazing, to see a 4th or 5th magnitude fainter satellite move by the field of view too using my telescopes, apparently more frequently now that starlink is underway. Even if Starlink satellites are 7th magnitude, binocular viewers will be able to see this stuff too

 

[Videovic]

SpaceX has a fix in play to make its bright Star satellites less disruptive to astronomy.

SpaceX to Make Star Satellites Dimmer to Lessen Impact on Astronomy: Report : Read more

I want to suggest that Spacex uses Phanta black, the super absorbant black coating which is the blackest coating in existence.

 

[rod]

In my view, time will tell after the many thousands of new satellites are in Earth orbit. The professional observatory reports and amateur astronomer, stargazer reports - so far do not look good for dark skies in the future. It could turn into a 1970s disco dance lighting in the sky