Mmastodon ScienceSpace Policy first seen 5 h ago, last 10 min ago, peak #4
AST SpaceMobile satellites found far brighter than FCC mitigation targets
Original: "Our measurements reveal an average brightness seven times brighter than mitigation targets cited in FCC filings and pea
New measurements of AST SpaceMobile's BlueBird satellites show an average brightness seven times above mitigation targets cited in the company's FCC filings, with peak readings more than 200 times brighter than the International Astronomical Union's recommended limit of magnitude 7. Astronomers, including researcher John Barentine, warn that further planned deployments could worsen light pollution affecting ground-based observations, renewing debate over satellite constellations and regulatory oversight.
Why now: Fresh brightness measurements challenge the adequacy of AST SpaceMobile's regulatory commitments as more satellites are prepared for launch.
AST SpaceMobileJohn BarentineFCCInternational Astronomical Union
Evidence
- "Our measurements reveal an average brightness seven times brighter than mitigation targets cited in FCC filings and peak values over 200 times brighter than the International Astronomical Union’s recommended threshold (V magnitude 7). Now, AST SpaceMobile is expected to deploy… · JohnBarentine@scicomm.xyz · 73
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