Evaluating the benefits of dark and quiet skies in an age of satellite mega-constellations

Abstract

In an age of proliferating satellite constellations and congested Earth orbits, what is the status and value of dark and quiet skies? Satellite mega-constellations such as Starlink are illuminating the night sky with unnatural light and making astronomical observations—both professional and recreational—increasingly difficult. Radio frequency interference (RFI) from these constellations also adds obtrusive “noise,” impacting sensitive astronomical observations in the radio portion of the electromagnetic spectrum. Scientists predict that the growing commercial space sector will add more than 100,000 satellites to Earth's orbit by the end of the decade, raising concerns from numerous scientists as to the future of dark skies. Astronomy, in particular, is inevitably affected by the impending disappearance of dark and quiet skies, which are necessary conditions for many aspects of scientific research. This topic has also gained attention, at both the international level and national level, within the United States. Nonetheless, contributions to the conversation of mitigating light/noise pollution predominantly focus on the likely adverse effects of artificial sky brightening from satellites. A holistic discussion is also warranted on the benefits of existing night skies and their significance for society.

This paper addresses the positive value of dark skies and the significance of protecting astronomy through current governing and analogous frameworks. First, this paper evaluates dark skies’ application under existing international and national law and policy, highlighting lacunae in governance and outlining convoluted issues for Earth-based science (astronomy) versus the lawful use of space (satellites). U.S. space law is used as a case study given the extensive history of the United States in space, comprehensive U.S. space political infrastructures, and the burgeoning domestic satellite mega-constellation industry. Second, relevant ethical values are identified to clarify inherent moral considerations that can guide policymaking and serve to establish practical measures and approaches to balance the conflicting interests of astronomers and satellite operators. Significantly, this paper contributes to the topic by explaining how the advent of technological change creates new conflicts on Earth and expounds on how and why these issues are lacking or are inadequate under current international frameworks. Moreover, this work explores key ethical values on this topic for informing public policy on dark and quiet skies and highlights some mechanisms for resolving these conflicts. In conclusion, the recession of dark skies is already occurring, and the likely impacts require transparency, good will, and interdisciplinary compromise between scientists, policymakers, and the space industry.