Astronomers are changing the way they observe the stars due to the large number of satellites in the sky

Astronomers are looking for new methods of observing stars due to the increasing number of satellites that are hindering their studies, Scientific American reports.

When the Rubin Observatory was first developed more than 20 years ago, no one was concerned about the impact of satellites on images, but over the years, the problem has become more acute. The number of operating satellites has now grown to 11,000, and their number continues to grow due to orbital systems like Starlink and OneWeb, which provide internet access around the world. This interferes with astronomers by creating bright streaks in images and electromagnetic interference for radio telescopes.

Astronomers are working with companies to minimize these interferences. For example, a tool called SatChecker has been created that allows astronomers to determine which satellites will pass over the observatory during an observation. However, this tool is not perfect due to atmospheric effects and incomplete data. To reduce the impact of satellites on observations, the Rubin Observatory has special observing schedules to avoid unwanted bands in the images, particularly in the dark or on the horizon. Satellites also change their orbits, which makes it difficult to plan observations.

The problem is being addressed through collaborations with companies like SpaceX and Amazon, which are testing changes to satellite designs to reduce their brightness. Astronomers also use the SCORE database to identify bright satellites and adjust for their impact on the image.

Satellite problems also have an impact on radio astronomy, where powerful satellite signals can interfere with background signals from space. To reduce this effect, SpaceX is already working to temporarily turn off signal transmissions when satellites pass over important observatories.

In general, the issues of the impact of satellites on astronomy and the environment are becoming increasingly relevant, and scientists are working to solve these problems.