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International Astronomical Union establishes centre to coordinate response to satellite constellations

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  1. Cycloneblaze
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    I'm pleased to see this move. It seems they have some buy-in from industry, but I take issue with one quote: I do not at all think that it's better to make piecemeal agreements that rely on the...

    I'm pleased to see this move. It seems they have some buy-in from industry, but I take issue with one quote:

    And, critically, it will act as a forum to discuss with industry voluntary measures that can be implemented to minimise the intrusiveness of the satellites. A good example has been SpaceX's and OneWeb's willingness to discuss how they can reduce the reflectivity of their spacecraft by applying different coatings or sunshields.

    "It's better to make these agreements than to go through regulations. But we're hopeful in talking with them already that some compromises can be made," said Dr [Connie] Walker.

    I do not at all think that it's better to make piecemeal agreements that rely on the goodwill of a profit-motivated company, than robust regulation that encompasses the whole sector.

    1 vote