Satellites leak noise that interferes with telescopes and GPS. Here's how to fix it

Satellites leak radio noise that interferes with telescopes and GPS, a problem that has received less attention than the space junk issue. A team from Western Australia measured radio energy from Starlink satellites at low frequencies, finding that they exceeded the limits set by the International Telecommunication Union between 50% and 70% of the time. This is far beyond the acceptable 2% limit. The research also showed that with 12,000 satellites, direct-to-phone satellites already spoil over half of the geodetic measurements behind GPS, and with 300,000 satellites, every geodetic measurement is lost. The fix involves shielding electronics over wider radio frequency ranges and reducing leakage. A window exists to fix these issues before satellite numbers explode. If we miss this window, it could mean the end of radio astronomy as we know it, and it could also threaten technologies of the highest economic importance, such as GPS. Australia is in a unique position to lead the way, with the telescopes, heritage, and quietest skies. An important first step is implementing a system that routinely monitors radio interference from satellites. This would ensure we develop a more robust evidence base which can inform policy decisions and standards work and ultimately provide evidence for policy enforcement.

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