'This is really intolerable': Astronomers protest giant orbiting mirror project and SpaceX's million AI satellites

Published on March 22, 2026, by Tereza Pultarova

Introduction

A growing concern among astronomers has emerged regarding two significant projects that threaten the integrity of the night sky. The proposed constellation of tens of thousands of orbiting mirrors aimed at reflecting light onto ground-based solar power plants, alongside SpaceX’s ambitious plan to deploy one million orbiting AI data centers, has sparked widespread protests within the astronomical community. Experts argue that these projects could severely hinder scientific progress by obscuring the views of telescopes worldwide.

Concerns from the Astronomical Community

Leading the charge against these initiatives is Robert Massey, the deputy executive director of the British Royal Astronomical Society (RAS). He expressed his dismay, stating, “This is really intolerable. It’s absolutely the destruction of a central part of human heritage.” The RAS, which is the oldest astronomical society in the world, has voiced its strong opposition to these developments, emphasizing the potential damage to astronomical research and heritage.

Impact of the Proposed Projects

The projects in question have been submitted for approval to the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC). If realized, the consequences for astronomy could be dire:

• Obstruction of Observations: The deployment of thousands of reflective satellites would create a significant barrier to astronomical observations, making it harder for scientists to study celestial phenomena.
• Light Pollution: The mirrors designed to reflect sunlight would contribute to light pollution, further diminishing the quality of night sky observations.
• Scientific Progress at Risk: The ability to conduct vital astronomical research could be compromised, hindering advancements in our understanding of the universe.

The Role of SpaceX

SpaceX’s proposal for one million orbiting AI data centers is another contentious issue. These data centers are intended to facilitate various technological advancements, but the sheer scale of the project raises alarms among astronomers. With the increasing number of satellites in low Earth orbit, the night sky is becoming increasingly cluttered, making it difficult to distinguish between natural celestial bodies and artificial satellites.

Visual Evidence of the Problem

An image captured in June 2024 illustrates the current state of the night sky, filled with satellite streaks. Taken from a latitude of 51 degrees north, the photograph shows numerous satellites illuminated by sunlight, creating a web of lines across the sky. This visual representation underscores the growing issue of satellite congestion and its impact on astronomical observations.

Historical Context

The concerns raised by astronomers are not new. Over the past few years, the astronomical community has been increasingly vocal about the challenges posed by satellite megaconstellations. Projects like SpaceX’s Starlink have already demonstrated the potential for disruption, with bright satellites interfering with both ground-based and space-based observations.

Efforts to Mitigate the Impact

In response to these challenges, astronomers and organizations are advocating for stricter regulations on satellite launches and operations. Some potential solutions include:

• Designing Less Reflective Satellites: Encouraging satellite manufacturers to create less reflective materials that minimize light pollution.
• Implementing Launch Restrictions: Establishing guidelines that limit the number of satellites launched in a given timeframe to reduce congestion.
• Collaborative Research: Promoting partnerships between satellite companies and the astronomical community to address concerns and find mutually beneficial solutions.

Public Awareness and Advocacy

Raising public awareness about the importance of preserving the night sky is crucial. Educational campaigns can help the general public understand the implications of satellite proliferation and the need for responsible space practices. Advocacy groups are also working to influence policymakers to consider the long-term effects of these projects on scientific research and cultural heritage.

Conclusion

The protests from the astronomical community regarding the proposed orbiting mirror project and SpaceX’s satellite plans highlight a critical intersection between technological advancement and scientific integrity. As humanity continues to explore the cosmos, it is essential to balance innovation with the preservation of our natural heritage. The future of astronomy may depend on our ability to address these challenges collaboratively and responsibly.

Note: The information presented in this article is based on current developments and may evolve as new data and proposals emerge.