SpaceX Satellites Hampering Astronomical Research

Researchers from the Netherlands have raised concerns that the growing fleet of Starlink satellites is obstructing the observation of celestial phenomena.

Investigators at the Netherlands Institute for Radio Astronomy (ASTRON) discovered that the newer versions of Elon Musk’s satellites are creating more disruption for radio telescopes than earlier models. The presence of thousands of satellites in orbit is increasingly complicating scientific research.

The UK’s Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport has reported that these satellites can deliver internet speeds four times faster than the average.

Despite the remarkable services provided by Musk’s satellites, astronomers highlight that their research is facing significant setbacks due to the interference.

Professor Jessica Dempsey, director of ASTRON, commented to BBC News, “With each launch of these satellites emitting high energy, our ability to observe the cosmos is significantly reduced.”