We’re launching Lyria 3.5 in Google Flow Music, with advances across musicality, lyrics, vocals, and creative control
deepmind.google·6d ago
AI Engineering
Hacker News·Jul 4·5 min read
No more than 100 000 faint satellites should orbit Earth
TL;DR
A new study reveals that launching over 1.7 million satellites could severely disrupt astronomical observations. The research recommends limiting satellites to no more than 100,000 faint ones, which are not visible to the naked eye.
✦ Why It Matters
Engineers and researchers should consider the impact of satellite brightness on astronomical research and advocate for regulatory measures.
Key Takeaways
- Advocate for limiting satellite launches to protect astronomy.
- Consider the brightness of satellites in design and deployment.
- Stay informed about regulations affecting satellite constellations.
- Collaborate with astronomers to mitigate light pollution.
Full Summary
Recent findings from the European Southern Observatory (ESO) highlight the potential dangers of increasing satellite constellations, particularly those that are bright and numerous. The study, led by astronomer Olivier Hainaut, calculates that no more than 100,000 faint satellites should orbit Earth to protect astronomical observations.
Currently, over 14,000 satellites are in orbit, with plans for more than 1.7 million, including SpaceX's proposal for one million additional satellites. These bright satellites could make hundreds to thousands visible at night, similar to the number of stars seen in clear conditions.
Additionally, Reflect Orbital's plan to launch mirror-like satellites could create beams of light that are four times brighter than the full Moon. The implications of these findings suggest a critical need for regulations to manage satellite launches and their brightness to safeguard the night sky.