This hybrid event forms part of the Royal Astronomical Society's Specialist Discussion Meeting (SDM) programme.

Astronomy relies on observing dark and quiet skies. However, dramatically increasing numbers of satellites are being launched in constellations for communications, earth observation, compute capacity, and more - around 15,000 satellites are already in orbit, and millions more are being planned. These can impact observations across optical, radio, infrared, and submillimetre wavelengths, affecting both ground- and space-based observatories.

We are now at a critical point: proposals for more communications satellites; space-based mirrors, and orbital AI data centres could fundamentally change the sky and pose an existential threat to astronomy. Decisions made now will shape the space environment for decades.

This specialist discussion meeting will bring together astronomers and other stakeholders to discuss these impacts and, crucially, consider what we can do about them. Topics include observational and technical mitigation; multi-wavelength coordination; communicating the case for astronomy; space safety/sustainability, environmental impacts; and steps to developing effective regulatory and policy responses.

Click here for the: Schedule (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1kN3IyGlx8B6h_ANGczag9EQeSGorT2HmFeWObUKmPt8/edit?usp=sharing)

Abstract submission: https://forms.gle/7B5JdiGW8md2S2259 (https://forms.gle/7B5JdiGW8md2S2259) (closes 9th October)

Convenor

Dr Mike Peel; Dr Paul A Daniels; Dr Dave Clements; Dr Davide Amato; Dr Marieta Valdivia Lefort; Prof Robert Massey.

Photo Credit: CTIO/NOIRLab/NSF/AURA/DECam DELVE Survey

Description supplied by the event organiser.