Streaks, signals, and space junk: facing the challenges of satellite constellations

Abstract Satellites provide important data and services, such as communications, internet access, Earth observation, and technologies like GPS that provide positioning, navigation, and timing. However, the launch, operation, and disposal of an increasing number of satellites could cause or increase several potential effects, such as hindering optical and radio astronomy, creating additional space debris, and affecting the upper atmosphere through launch and reentry emissions. To help policymakers address the challenges presented by the ongoing increase of satellites in orbit, the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) issued a report: Large Constellations of Satellites: Mitigating Environmental and Other Effects (GAO-22-105166). This keynote address discussed the report findings, including policy options directed to a range of policymakers that may include legislative bodies, government agencies, researchers, standards-setting organizations, industry, and other groups.