Mega-Constellations and Astronomers: Updates on SATCON2 and IAU Dark and Quiet Skies

The rapid development of low Earth orbit (LEO) is being done without due regard for the long-term preservation of LEO or humanity's connection with the cosmos. In particular, large constellations of satellites, i.e., so-called mega-constellations or satcons, have the potential to severely interfere with the use and exploration of space by numerous other actors. This includes interference with astronomy and stargazing through light and spectrum pollution. Satcon development also might have non-trivial environmental impacts on Earth's atmosphere. At the same time, space is free to be used and explored by all actors, provided that the use of space by one actor does not prevent others from also using and exploring space. Space is a regime that requires continuous cooperation.

In this vein, astronomers have intensified dialogue with satcon operators and governments in an effort to identify ways that LEO can be developed without causing significant disruptions to astronomical research, and more generally, to the preservation of dark and quiet skies.  In this discussion, I highlight some of the progress that has been made in the past year through major initiatives, including the NSF sponsored SATCON1&2 recommendations and the IAU/UN Dark and Quiet Skies reports.