The Growing Threat of Satellites to Astronomy

Scientists have warned that the increasing number of satellites and artificial light are an unprecedented global threat to nature and cultural heritage, as they block the view of the night sky and threaten the profession of astronomy. The unfettered access to dark night skies is rapidly diminishing due to light pollution and satellite constellation tracks. The satellites also pose a challenge to space debris, and atmospheric pollution from debris and rocket exhaust gases. Scientists should do more to stand up to ‘big light’ and ‘big space’ and preserve this natural resource.