SpaceX’s new direct-to-cell (DTC) Starlink satellites have been making headlines lately, and for good reason. Recent research has shown that these satellites are nearly five times brighter in the sky than traditional Starlinks. This higher luminosity is due in part to the fact that DTCs orbit Earth at just 217 miles (350 kilometers) above the surface, which is lower than traditional Starlink internet satellites that orbit at an altitude of 340 miles (550 kilometers).
While the increased brightness of DTCs may seem like a negative impact on astronomy observations, it’s important to note that they also move at a faster apparent rate and spend more time in Earth’s shadow than regular Starlinks. This means that the negative impact on astronomy observations may be offset to some extent.
SpaceX’s Starlink program aims to provide high-speed internet access to people all over the world, particularly in rural and remote areas where traditional internet infrastructure is lacking. The company plans to launch thousands of satellites into orbit to achieve this goal, and the DTCs are just one part of this larger effort.
Despite the potential benefits of the Starlink program, there have been concerns raised about the impact of these satellites on astronomy and space exploration. The increased brightness of DTCs, in particular, has been a cause for concern among astronomers who worry that they could interfere with observations of the night sky.
However, SpaceX has taken steps to address these concerns. The company has been working with astronomers to develop ways to reduce the impact of Starlink satellites on astronomy observations. For example, the company has developed a “sunshade” that can be attached to the satellites to reduce their brightness.
In addition, SpaceX has also been working on developing a new type of satellite that would be less reflective and therefore less visible in the night sky. These “DarkSat” satellites have already been launched and are being tested to see how effective they are at reducing the impact of Starlink on astronomy observations.
Overall, the increased brightness of SpaceX’s new DTC Starlink satellites is just one aspect of a larger effort to provide high-speed internet access to people all over the world. While there are concerns about the impact of these satellites on astronomy and space exploration, SpaceX is working to address these concerns and find ways to minimize their negative impact.
