SpaceX: Lowering Starlink Satellite Orbits Reduces Impact on Astronomy

SpaceX has found a new way to prevent Starlink satellites from interfering with astronomy: Bring them closer to Earth. The satellites can reflect sunlight and accidentally photobomb astronomical observations. But last week, SpaceX told the Federal Communications Commission that its effort to operate over 300 Starlink satellites at lower altitudes could help keep them out of view. “Analysis shows nearly a 60% reduction in Vera Rubin Observatory images containing an illuminated satellite when operating equivalent constellations at 350 km (217 miles) vs. 550 km,” the company tells the agency. More

(Source: PCMag - Jan 8)