A new generation of commercial satellites is now orbiting in low orbit, with reflective light more powerful than most stars. Enough to disappoint astronomers.
Five massive commercial communications satellites, dubbed BlueBirds, were launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket last Thursday. The devices are equipped with a large reflective antenna measuring about 64 meters2 which makes them particularly bright at night. The company’s early prototypes outshined most objects in the sky, with the exception of the Moon, Venus, Jupiter and seven of the brightest stars.
Five other satellites were therefore added during this month of September by the company AST SpaceMobile, which aims to expand its constellation. In September 2023, the Texan company made the very first 5G phone call between its prototype satellite and a Samsung Galaxy S22. We believe that cellular broadband connectivity from space will revolutionize the way people connect ” said Abel Avellan, CEO of AST SpaceMobile.
Starlink, BlueBirds, a new constellation in low orbit
BlueWalker 3, which the company launched in September 2022, was found to be as bright as two of the ten brightest stars in the sky, according to a study published in Nature in October 2023. Our next generation of satellites will be three and a half times larger ” said the company’s CEO. Currently, there are no official regulations to limit the brightness of satellites in orbit.
SpaceX has already launched more than 7,000 satellites, and new series of its Starlink satellites continue to be sent into low orbit. Amazon, OneWeb and Lynk Global are also looking to enter the race. Starry nights will appear more artificial to astronomers.
Source: www.numerama.com
