Dear FCC Space Bureau Chief Julie Kearney, ‘The new space race doesn’t need to create massive space waste.’
The number of satellites in orbit is skyrocketing, and the environmental risks may be massive.
Public Interest Research Group Letter to the FCC
PIRG is a federation of independent, state-based, citizen-funded Public Interest Research Groups, and is part of The Public Interest Network, which operates and supports organizations committed to a shared vision of a better world and a strategic approach to social change.
On October 24, 2024, the Public Interest Network submitted a Letter to the FCC signed by 120 astronomy, astrophysics and space experts from top universities about the Commission’s lack of environmental review for satellites.
“The number of large satellites in low Earth orbit has increased 12 times in five years, in large part because of SpaceX. The new space race is ramping up quickly: Some experts estimate an additional 58,000 satellites will be launched by 2030. In response, 120 astronomy, astrophysics and space experts from top universities sent a letter Thursday to the Federal Communications Commission asking the agency to study the effects of satellite mega-constellations on space, the atmosphere and environment.” (Read more HERE)
The letter generated some good media coverage (relatively speaking given the times):
The Register, Gizmodo, LA Times, Space.com, and more.
Direct Action to Take in Support of the PIRG Letter to the FCC- Sign on
Scientists, space experts, and environmentalists please sign the Expert’s Letter
Members of the public can sign on to Tell the FCC: Satellite mega-constellations need environmental review. (NB, it’s possible only US residents can sign.)
“That launching 30,000 to 500,000 satellites into low earth orbit doesn’t even warrant an environmental review offends common sense.” – The Public Interest Network
GAO Government Accountability Office
In November 2022, the US Government Accountability Office (GAO) released a report, “Satellite Licensing: FCC Should Reexamine Its Environmental Review Process for Large Constellations of Satellites.”
In April 2023, the FCC launched Space Bureau and Office of International Affairs. However, according to PIRG, “the agency’s avoidance of responsibilities under the National Environmental Policy Act means it might not have the capacity or expertise to oversee the new space race.”
Additional Prior Expert Submissions to the FCC
- The Balance Group: Filings to the FCC opposing SpaceX’s next generation (Gen2) satellite network launch and operating authority request
- Broadband International Legal Action Network (BBILAN) re: Satellites https://www.bbilan.org/hhtisatellites
2024 Politics and the Urgent Need for Action to Safeguard the Skies
Regulatory agencies in the US which are already in bed with the industries they regulate, will likely see a further decrease in regulatory oversight during the next four years given Elon Musk’s close ties with President Elect Trump. With rising geopolitical tensions, and the United States’ mission to dominate and control space at all costs, and “deny others the use of space if required” (See Space Command Vision for 2020) we have our work cut out for us.
Satellite Phones and Disaster Capitalism?
Recent flooding in Asheville, North Carolina has intensified discussion about satellite cellphone infrastructure. See GUARDS’ objections and comments for satellite launches submitted to the FCC, and a one-page summary about rocket soot exhaust and black carbon from launches HERE
Astronomers’ Appeal
Astronomer and technologist Stefano Gallozzi was the organizer and promoter of the Appeal by Astronomers Safeguarding the Astronomical Sky which has been signed by about 2100 astronomers. (See also, Fondazione SAS: Safeguarding the Astronomical Sky, and the list of signatories to the Appeal)
Stay Informed, Join Engaged Action Groups
- Professional astronomers, technologists, engineers, PhD students, collaborators and, or associates at international scientific institutes, please sign the Astronomical Appeal
- Join Safeguarding the Astronomical Skies HERE.
- Become more informed – Check out Microwaving Our Planet and Tech and the Military
- Share this online resource – Technology, Artificial Intelligence, the Military and War.
- Become a member of the Global Network Against Weapons and Nuclear Power in Space.
- Subscribe to Arthur Firstenberg’s newsletters for a wealth of information about all things EMF, satellites, and mountains of love pouring out from his urgent cries in defense of Earth.
- Add your voice to the Facebook group and actions, Global 5G Protest for Freedom.
Learn More: Free The Sky…
Continue reading at Patricia’s Substack and Subscribe!
Image by WikiImages from Pixabay Compiled with Kate Kheel of Safe Tech International.
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