Study: ultra-black coating could reduce satellite light pollution
5 hours ago
- #light pollution
- #astronomy
- #satellite technology
- Astrophysicists at the University of Surrey propose using Vantablack® 310, an ultra-black coating, to reduce satellite brightness and light pollution.
- The coating reflects only about 2% of light, distributing it diffusely to minimize bright streaks and flares that interfere with astronomical observations.
- Simulations show the coating can make satellites significantly fainter, nearly meeting International Astronomical Union brightness limits for protecting the night sky.
- The research is part of the Light Pollution and Sustainable Space initiative, which won a sustainability award and includes an upcoming in-orbit demonstration on the Jovian-1 CubeSat mission.
- The findings have been presented internationally, including at a UN workshop and a TEDx talk, highlighting the need to address satellite light pollution.