How Starlink Satellites are ‘Blinding’ Astronomers

A recent study published in the journal *Astronomy & Astrophysics* reveals that Elon Musk’s Starlink satellites are significantly disrupting astronomers’ work. Currently, the Starlink network consists of over 6,300 operational satellites orbiting Earth at an altitude of about 550 km, providing high-speed internet to remote areas that would otherwise lack access.

Benjamin Winkel, a scientist at the Max Planck Institute for Radio Astronomy and one of the study’s contributors, described the problem as “blinding” to astronomers. . It’s similar to how your eye gets saturated when exposed to too much light,” Winkel told DW.

Growing Concerns Over Satellite Interference

The situation could worsen with the expansion of Starlink’s second-generation satellites, which currently make up less than a third of the total constellation. According to the study, these newer satellites emit unintended electromagnetic radiation (UEMR) that is 32 times brighter than the first-generation satellites, further exacerbating interference. Although Starlink had taken steps to reduce UEMR from its first-gen satellites, the second-gen satellites seem to be more problematic.

“While the first-generation satellites have dimmed over the last year due to Starlink’s efforts to address radio leaks, the new generation has unfortunately become brighter,” Winkel added, highlighting the need for stricter regulation as satellite constellations grow in number.