Jason Report on the Impacts of Large Satellite Constellations
The U.S. National Science Foundation commissioned a study by the independent science advisory group JASON to assess the impact of current and planned large satellite constellations on astronomical observations in 2020. The charge for JASON was to:
- Understand the types and numbers of spacecraft planned for launch in the next decade.
- Understand the current regulatory process for commercial launches to Low Earth Orbit, both in the U.S and internationally.
- Characterize the types of interference that spacecraft could have on observations of multiple types, specifically in the optical and infrared wavelength regimes.
- Gather and describe the range of observations currently being made and foreseen for the future.
- Suggest any additional data that should be gathered to better understand the scope of the problem for the future.
NSF commissioned the report as a resource for all stakeholders. The JASON group had broad discretion in constructing its report and identifying relevant issues. The report sets benchmarks and the foundation for discussing the impacts on astronomy at various wavelengths.
NSF is reviewing the report's findings and recommendations and intends to continue to work with stakeholders on the development of mutual solutions.
Please review the full PDF report.
Recent and upcoming relevant activities and events can be found at the following:
- Report from the Dark and Quiet Skies conference sponsored by the UN Office of Outer Space Affairs and the International Astronomical Union and at the request of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space
- Satellite Constellations 1 report
- Satellite Constellations 2 workshop, July 12-16, 2021
- Dark and Quiet Skies for Science and Society Conference, October 3-7, 2021
- NSF's Spectrum Innovation Initiative
- Radio Spectrum Coordination Agreement
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
For questions related to the report contents, contact Mitre Corporation at glong@mitre.org.
For questions related to NSF's astronomy program, contact mpscomms@nsf.gov.