In a bold plea to protect both the environment and humanity, 120 international astronomers and researchers have sent a compelling letter to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). This urgent communication emphasizes the need for the FCC to investigate the alarming impacts of satellite debris—commonly known as space junk—in low Earth orbit.

With the backing of the U.S. Public Interest Research Group (PIRG), these scientists are calling for a halt to new launches of extensive private satellite megaconstellations until a comprehensive environmental review is conducted. They have directed their concerns specifically to FCC Space Bureau Chief Julie Kearney, underscoring the necessity of examining the negative ramifications of increased satellite activity.

The Launch Surge: A Looming Crisis?

The situation has escalated dramatically in recent years. Reports suggest that companies like SpaceX plan to send a staggering 58,000 satellites into low Earth orbit by 2030. This is a twelvefold increase in satellite launches over the past five years, with SpaceX leading the charge, accounting for approximately 60% of all satellite launches. As these megaconstellations are designed with a lifecycle of about five years before requiring replacement, the frequency of launches is only set to rise.

While proponents of satellite launches highlight their contributions to expanding global internet access, the letter insists that this technological advancement should not overshadow the potential environmental risks that remain largely undocumented. Scientific studies have raised concerns over the exhaust emissions from rocket launches and the pollution caused by metals released into the atmosphere as satellites disintegrate upon re-entry. Moreover, incidents where satellites fail to burn up entirely in the atmosphere pose significant risks to property and human life on Earth.

Additionally, the proliferation of megaconstellations has raised alarm bells regarding their interference with astronomical observations and disruptions to wildlife behavior, further complicating our relationship with the cosmos.

Environmental Regulations Under Fire

The crux of the issue may lie in how the FCC currently categorizes these satellite projects. According to PIRG, the National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA) mandates environmental assessments for sizeable government initiatives, including those overseen by the FCC. However, many large satellite constellations have been granted categorical exclusions, escaping this critical scrutiny. The astronomers’ letter implores the FCC to reconsider these exclusions, arguing that there is no valid justification for their continued application.

The American Astronomical Society (AAS)—comprising both professional and amateur astronomers—echoes these concerns, having previously reached out to various policymakers to highlight similar issues.

Looking Ahead: Policy Changes on the Horizon?

Recently, sources close to the FCC have indicated that the agency plans to evaluate its categorical exclusion policies and anticipates proposing revisions to NEPA regulations in collaboration with the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) by July 1, 2025. This potential policy shift could pave the way for a more regulated approach to satellite launches, ensuring that environmental impacts are taken into account before new constellations clutter our skies.

Astronomers' calls for a change in policy reflect a growing urgency among scientists and environmental advocates alike. As the space race continues to escalate, it becomes increasingly crucial to balance technological advances with the stewardship of our planet and the cosmos. Stay tuned for more updates as this critical story unfolds!