In the study, titled "Unintended Electromagnetic Radiation From Starlink Satellites Detected With LOFAR Between 110 and 188 MHz" published in the journal Astronomy & Astrophysics, scientists reported using the LOFAR telescope and observed unintended electromagnetic radiation emanating from the onboard electronics of SpaceX's Starlink satellites.
This discovery, different from expected communication transmissions, has raised concerns about its impact on astronomical research. Further scientific evaluation and consideration by satellite operators and regulators are underway to address this issue.
This long-exposure image shows a trail of a group of SpaceX's Starlink satellites passing over Uruguay as seen from the countryside some 185 km north of Montevideo near Capilla del Sauce, Florida Department, on February 7, 2021.
Starlink Satellites Leaking Low-Frequency Radio Waves
Astronomers rely on weak radio signals from space, but human-generated radio waves often overshadow them, making them harder to detect. Recent research has revealed that the electronics on SpaceX's Starlink satellites are emitting low-frequency radio waves, separate from their designated downlink bands, which could potentially hinder astronomical observations.
Engineer Federico Di Vruno of the SKA Observatory and the International Astronomical Union stated in the news release that this study contributes to the ongoing efforts to comprehend the impact of satellite constellations on radio astronomy, confirming the measurability of unintended radiation.
As satellite deployments continue to increase, the effects of satellites on space research are becoming a growing concern. As per Science Alert, SpaceX alone has thousands of small internet satellites in Earth's orbit, with plans for further launches. Other companies, such as OneWeb and Amazon, also have significant satellite plans.
While efforts have been made by SpaceX to address visible light pollution with the development of dimmer satellites, this primarily addresses concerns related to visible light observations. The realm of radio astronomy, which is a major branch of Earth-based astronomy, is where potential issues may arise.
Radio telescopes are shielded to minimize interference from terrestrial radiation. However, the emergence of large satellite constellations, like SpaceX's Starlink network, presents a new challenge. These constellations require thousands of satellites orbiting close to Earth, potentially obstructing radio astronomers' observations.
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The Problem of Leaked Radio Waves
While frequency bands crucial for astronomy are protected, the recent discovery of electromagnetic leakage radiation from Starlink satellites poses concerns, according to the news release. Despite its low power, this radiation can be comparable to or stronger than space-originating signals due to the satellites' proximity to Earth.
Efforts to comprehend the impact of satellite constellations on radio astronomy are ongoing, led by organizations like the International Astronomical Union's Centre for the Protection of the Dark and Quiet Sky from Satellite Constellation Interference, represented by co-director Federico Di Vruno, who is also a spectrum manager for the SKA Observatory.
Vruno, co-director of the International Astronomical Union's Centre for the Protection of the Dark and Quiet Sky from Satellite Constellation Interference (IAU CPS), states that this study is part of ongoing efforts to comprehend the effects of satellite constellations on radio astronomy.
The observations confirm the measurable presence of radiation beyond communication signals, aligning with previous discussions and theories in workshops on Dark and Quiet Skies. Di Vruno also serves as the spectrum manager for the SKA Observatory (SKAO), and all other authors of the study are actively involved in the CPS.
The study serves as a significant step toward understanding the extent of interference caused by satellite constellations and provides a foundation for further research in this field. The collaboration between the IAU CPS and scientists involved in the study demonstrates a collective effort to protect the integrity of radio astronomy amidst the proliferation of satellite-based technologies.
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