Planned 1.7 million satellites ‘devastating’ for astronomy: Study
A new study by the European Southern Observatory warns that the planned launch of 1.7 million satellites could cause irreversible damage to astronomical research. Researchers are calling for a cap of 100,000 satellites to prevent the night sky from becoming too bright for ground-based telescopes.
Why it matters
The rapid expansion of satellite constellations for internet and AI infrastructure poses a significant conflict between technological progress and scientific observation of the universe.
A SpaceX rocket lifting off at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida on June 8. The mission will deploy 29 Starlink satellites into orbit.
The report focuses on the scientific findings and the potential conflict between industry and astronomy without taking a political stance.
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