St. Louis Astronomical Society: A Sky Full of Satellites: Implications for Professional and Amateur Astronomers
With the creation of new networks of low Earth-orbit satellites for global communications, astronomers face a severe problem. As many as 100,000 bright satellites will streak through night skies, leaving tracks which can ruin photographic images, both scientific and aesthetic. While many are concerned with how to avoid these new satellites, Mr. Krantz is intentionally observing them to measure their brightnesses and to evaluate current and future plans for reducing their interference. Through an extensive observational survey now totaling more than 15,000 individual sightings, he is measuring the brightness of each satellite and creating all-sky maps that show how bright astronomers can expect satellites to be in whichever region of the sky they look, whenever they look.
Harry Krantz is a graduate student in the Department of Astronomy at the University of Arizona. His research focuses on observing and characterizing satellites and debris in Earth orbit. With a background in engineering and systems development, Mr. Krantz creates new instruments, telescope systems, and methodology to overcome the challenges of observing despite satellite interference. His projects include characterizing rotating bodies with high-speed cameras, rapid object discrimination based on color, and characterizing the brightness of new low Earth orbit satellites.
The St. Louis Astronomical Society is an organization for individuals interested in astronomy and telescopes. The public is invited to attend its meetings, telescope observing sessions, and special events. For more about information about Astronomical Society events, please visit www.slasonline.org or call 314-962-9231. The event, cosponsored by NASA's Missouri Space Grant Consortium at Washington University, is open to the public free of charge.
McDonnell Hall is on the south side of the Danforth Campus, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis 63130. The closest parking is street parking on Forsyth Boulevard or the East End Garage. Parking is free for entry after 5:00 pm in yellow or visitor parking spaces only. If you prefer to attend virtually, non-members of SLAS may request the Zoom link here: