NASA Warns SpaceX Satellites Threaten Hubble’s Observations

A recent study from NASA reveals significant concerns regarding the impact of satellite constellations on astronomical observations, particularly from the Hubble Space Telescope. Researchers led by Spanish astrophysicist Alejandro Serrano Borlaff have determined that the proliferation of satellites, notably from SpaceX, is increasingly threatening the integrity of space-based observations.

The research indicates that if current satellite deployment plans materialize, one out of every three images captured by the Hubble could be compromised by light pollution. Currently, SpaceX holds approval from the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to launch up to 12,000 satellites into low Earth orbit (LEO), with aspirations for an additional 30,000 satellites in the coming years. This could lead to a potential total of as many as 500,000 satellites being active in orbit over the next decade.

Growing Light Pollution Concerns

Borlaff highlighted that this study is the first of its kind to specifically investigate the effects of light pollution on space telescopes, considering the ambitious plans announced by the satellite industry. The implications extend beyond just Hubble. The European Space Agency’s upcoming ARRAKIHS mission, anticipated for the 2030s, may experience bright streaks of light in up to 96 percent of its images. Even NASA’s recently launched SPHEREx could see light pollution contaminate more than 99 percent of its observations.

The increasing number of satellites in LEO is generating a growing chorus of concern among astronomers. As the density of satellite constellations rises, the ability to capture clear and unobstructed images of celestial phenomena diminishes. These developments present serious challenges for future astronomical research and exploration.

Call for International Regulation

The study raises urgent questions about the necessity for international regulations to govern commercial activities in space. Without collaborative efforts to mitigate the adverse effects of satellite deployments, astronomers fear that the quality of their observations will continue to degrade. The challenge lies in convincing spacefaring nations, particularly the United States, to take decisive action to limit the proliferation of satellites in LEO.

As the debate unfolds, the astronomical community faces a critical juncture. The future of space observation hangs in the balance, necessitating immediate attention to address the implications of commercial satellite activity.