Elon Musk’s SpaceX is once again pushing boundaries with its plan to send 30,000 more Starlink satellites into orbit—sparking alarm among astronomers who warn this could forever alter the night sky. SpaceX claims the expansion is essential for global high-speed internet, but experts say the move could wreak havoc on astronomical observations.
Astronomers are worried that these new satellites will intensify light pollution, disrupt radio telescopes, and lead to dangerous space congestion. With requests to launch up to 1.7 million satellites in the coming years, scientists fear that the pristine night sky could be lost, creating new hurdles for space research.
Solutions such as non-reflective coatings and transmission adjustments are being discussed, but the sheer scale of Musk’s vision has astronomers scrambling for answers. As more satellites flood space, the battle to protect the cosmos is just beginning.
