The growing threat of satellite mega-constellations to astronomical research took center stage at the International Astronomical Union (IAU) Symposium 399, organized from 7-11 july in Melbourne, Australia. Among the speakers was also our researcher, Barbara Horváth, who delivered a presentation on the legal challenges posed by the rapid expansion of satellites in orbits around the Earth.
In her presentation, Barbara highlighted how current international space law fails to adequately safeguard astronomical observations, particularly those conducted from ground-based facilities. With light pollution and radio interference from commercial satellite networks increasingly disrupting telescopic data collection, the scientific community faces mounting obstacles.
While global awareness of the issue is growing, and several States and international organizations have expressed interest in preserving access to the night sky, she emphasized that non-binding resolutions and voluntary guidelines are not enough. Binding legal instruments are urgently needed to ensure the long-term sustainability of astronomical research.
The symposium featured a series of thought-provoking talks from experts around the world and fostered discussion on collaborative solutions to one of the most pressing issues in modern astronomy.
For more information: https://www.archaeoastronomy.org/iaus399
