A recent major study has revealed that nearly one in three Starlink satellites emit signals within the sensitive SKA-Low frequency band. The SKA-Low telescope, designed for groundbreaking radio astronomy, now faces unexpected interference from these low-orbit satellites. Researchers conducted one of the most comprehensive analyses to date, quantifying how much satellite interference threatens low-frequency radio observations.
How Starlink Impacts Astronomy
Starlink’s growing constellation of satellites increasingly overlaps the frequency range crucial for SKA-Low’s research. This interference could disrupt the telescope’s ability to study cosmic phenomena, such as the early universe and faint radio signals. The study’s findings highlight the urgent need for collaboration between satellite operators and astronomers to protect vital scientific research.
A Call for Action
As satellite networks expand, experts urge policymakers and companies to develop better mitigation strategies. Protecting radio-quiet zones has become more challenging, but essential for the future of astronomical discovery. The research team emphasizes that without action, the quality and scope of radio astronomy could decline significantly.
Sources:
https://astrobites.org/2025/08/12/starlink-ska-low/