Mmastodon ScienceSpace Policy first seen 2 h ago, last 15 min ago, peak #3
Astronomers warn Reflect Orbital mirror satellite plans would harm sky observations
Original: "'They're saying we want to launch 50,000 mirrors by 2035,' Benvenuti said. 'That would be catastrophic for astronomy, t
Astronomers are raising alarm over Reflect Orbital's proposal to launch tens of thousands of sunlight-reflecting satellites, with plans reportedly calling for as many as 50,000 mirrors in orbit by 2035. One astronomer, quoted by CBC News, called the plan 'catastrophic for astronomy'. The project, pitched as selling sunlight on demand, is currently under review by the US Federal Communications Commission, prompting debate about light pollution and the industrialisation of the night sky.
Why now: The FCC's consideration of Reflect Orbital's satellite licence has reignited concern among astronomers about large constellations ruining ground-based observations.
Rank over time, top of the chart is #1. 3 snapshots from 2 h ago to 15 min ago.
Evidence
- "'They're saying we want to launch 50,000 mirrors by 2035,' Benvenuti said. 'That would be catastrophic for astronomy, that is clear.'" https://www. cbc.ca/news/science/reflect-or bital-approval-fcc-9.7287535 # Astronomy # ReflectOrbital # SunlightAsAService # FCC # SpacePolicy · JohnBarentine@scicomm.xyz · 100
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