Satellite Reflections Threaten Space Telescope Imagery, Research Indicates

In 1997, the Space Shuttle Discovery captured an image of the Hubble Space Telescope as it floated in the cosmic expanse. Recent research warns that satellite light reflections may compromise future telescope images.

A significant issue is emerging with the growing constellation of satellites encircling our planet. According to a NASA-conducted study, over 95% of pictures taken by some space observatories could be marred by such reflections in the coming decade.

These reflections manifest as bright, linear disturbances known as satellite trails. NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope has already recorded these artifacts. With each new satellite launch, the situation exacerbates.

Predictions suggest that future observatories, like NASA's SPHEREx and the European Space Agency's ARRAKIHS, along with China’s Xuntian Space Telescope, may produce images plagued by these streaks. SPHEREx is operational as of this year, whereas ARRAKIHS and Xuntian are anticipated to launch soon.

Alejandro S. Borlaff, who led the study, shared a scenario in a podcast, stating, "Imagine capturing a distant galaxy, only for a sudden star explosion to be obscured by a passing satellite. That data is irretrievably lost."

The problem is intensifying: the recent surge in satellite launches outnumbers the total deployed in the previous 70 years. Over 10,000 active satellites orbit Earth as of December 1, primarily operated by SpaceX's Starlink project.

The International Telecommunication Union highlights that many more satellites are planned. From 2018 to 2021, only about 4% of Hubble’s images displayed these disturbances, according to a separate study from 2023. However, Borlaff and colleagues foresee one in three Hubble images affected in the near future.

The impact extends to ground-based observations, adversely affecting those telescopes as well. The astronomical community has long expressed concern about this issue.

The American Astronomical Society has cautioned that increased satellite numbers could heighten collision risks with space telescopes, leading to glare and streaks on images.

Roohi Dalal, AAS Deputy Director of Public Policy, stated that collaborative efforts with federal bodies and the satellite industry aim to minimize the negative effects of large satellite groups on astronomy.

SpaceX, when contacted by NPR, was unavailable for comment. Previously, the company has explored methods to reduce light reflections from its satellites, including experimenting with darker coatings and altering orbital paths.

The ITU has voiced worries about the rapid satellite increase. They suggest stricter international regulations and improved satellite network management to protect long-term space sustainability, reduce collision risks, and prevent debris accumulation.