Menu Close

Environmental impacts of satellites: sign the public interest research group letter to the FCC, and more

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 RegisterGizmodoLA TimesSpace.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

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

Image by WikiImages from Pixabay Compiled with Kate Kheel of Safe Tech International.

Article: Environmental impacts of satellites: sign the public interest research group letter to the FCC, and more 

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *