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One hundred and eleven is a record number: the number of consecutive successes of Space X’s “Falcon 9” launcher. Never has a rocket been so reliable, a record obtained this Thursday, February 3 following a Starlink mission , the company’s satellite constellation project to provide internet connection all around the globe. But now, these projects do not satisfy everyone. These thousands of machines in orbit indeed disturb the observations of telescopes on the ground to such an extent that the prestigious International Astronomical Union has decided to act.
A scientific snapshot of the starry sky marred by long white streaks, traces left by the passage of satellites, the sun reflecting on it… With the rise of satellite constellations, the problem is growing. Together, the companies Space X and One Web have already sent more than 2,000 devices into low orbit, and intend to add thousands more.
Perturbations
This is very boring for astronomers, but also for radio astronomers. Communications between these satellites and the ground can indeed disturb the observation of the cosmic microwave background, the oldest light emitted by the universe, the witness of the first ages following the “big bang”.
Despite the nuisances caused by these projects, no text, no agreement regulates them. L’International Astronomical Union therefore decided to take up the case. The prestigious organization has thus just created the Center for the protection of the dark and calm sky from the interference of the constellations of satellites.
A draft frame
A tool of lobbying with the States to establish a draft framework but also with these companies so that they finally take action. The method already seems to be bearing fruit since Space X and One Web have agreed to participate in these discussions and plan to modify the coating of their satellites to reduce their brightness.
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