O Bluewalker3, the prototype of the AST Space Mobile satellite, was recently launched and is one of the brightest objects in the night sky. The glow is so intense can impair astronomers’ observations of space and affect radio waves🇧🇷

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According to the International Astronomical Union’s Center for the Protection of Dark and Quiet Sky from Satellite Interference (IAU CPS), BlueWalker3 can outshine less bright objects in space. how the prototype is just the first communication network device of at least 100 satellitesobserving space will be difficult, especially for those who do not have enough powerful telescopes to get good images.

According to IAU CPS director Piero Benvenuti, the AST Space Mobile satellite creates a situation that needs to be carefully considered. “BlueWalker3 is a game changer for satellite constellation and should give us every reason to pause.”

Researchers are concerned about the luminosity of the satellite

It is thanks to observation that impressive images of space are obtained. BlueWalker3 won’t affect super telescopes like James Webb, but many researchers are concerned. Meredith Rawls of the University of Washington says the prototype will look like a streak of light in images. “The satellite will appear as a superbright streak in the images and could potentially obscure camera detectors at observatories.”

In addition, the satellite was built to act as a cell tower in space and uses terrestrial radio frequencies, which can disrupt radio communications on Earth. AST SpaceMobile said they are actively working with specialists and trying to avoid the complications predicted by scientists. “We look forward to using the latest technologies and strategies to mitigate the potential impact on astronomy.” If one superluminous prototype has already caused so much trouble with 100 satellites in space, it looks like the company needs to develop solutions and avoid problems in the future.

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Source: News Scientist.

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