ESA and astronomy centre agree to tackle satellite interference

The agreement was signed at the International Astronautical Congress, ESA said in an announcement published on 8 October. Under the memorandum, the agency plans to contribute technical expertise and work more closely with industry on ways to reduce satellites’ effects on astronomical observations. [1]

ESA space-debris analyst Jan Siminski said reflected sunlight from satellites can leave bright streaks in telescope images, while unintended emissions from spacecraft electronics can interfere with sensitive radio telescopes. He identified darker spacecraft surfaces, quieter electronics and models showing how satellites would appear to telescopes on Earth as approaches to develop.

Piero Benvenuti, director of the IAU centre, said the partners would encourage dialogue between astronomers and satellite operators, support new technology and promote best practices.