Astronomers' nightmare: Starlink satellites could blind radio telescopes

Are our windows into the past of the universe darkening? Radio telescopes, which allow us to look billions of years into the past thanks to their ability to capture weak radio waves, are no longer as effective as before. Recently, something has been disturbing them. Paradoxically, the culprits are not distant galaxies but Starlink satellites, which aim to make life better for us here on Earth.

Starlinks polluting the radio spectrum

A new study using the Dutch LOFAR radio telescope has revealed that Starlink satellites from SpaceX, providing internet connectivity, produce disruptive radio emissions. Although they are not emitted intentionally, they are millions of times stronger than the weak signals from space that LOFAR and similar telescopes study.

While the first generation of Starlinks posed a challenge for astronomers, the second generation, launched since last year, is even more problematic. Emissions from these satellites are up to 30 times stronger.

Is the future of astronomy in danger?

SpaceX plans to launch tens of thousands more Starlinks into orbit. If they fail to reduce the radio emissions, it could have catastrophic consequences for radio astronomy.

For telescopes like LOFAR, it would become virtually impossible to find a place in the sky without interference. Fortunately, SpaceX is collaborating with astronomers on a solution. Engineers from both sides are sharing data and looking for ways to reduce the emissions. Only time will tell if they succeed.

Not just about Starlink

However, the problem is not limited to SpaceX. There are an increasing number of satellites from various companies in orbit, and their numbers will rise sharply in the coming years. It is therefore essential that other entities also join in finding solutions and ensure that our desire for internet connectivity does not interrupt the quest for understanding the universe.