Astronomy is finally putting up a co-ordinated front to defend its interests as thousands of satellites are placed in the sky.
Huge networks of spacecraft are being launched that are making it harder to get a clear view of the cosmos.
These low-orbiting, fast-moving satellites leave bright streaks across telescope images.
The International Astronomical Union is establishing a new centre to focus the community’s response.
Its work will be led by the US National Optical-Infrared Astronomy Research Laboratory (NOIRLab) in Tucson, Arizona; and by the Square Kilometre Array Organisation (SKAO) in Manchester, UK. The latter is most concerned with the satellites’ effects on radio astronomy.
The new Centre for the Protection of the Dark and Quiet Sky from Satellite Constellation Interference will try to act as a single voice for astronomy. Read more…
