Space Café Radio Frontiers - Preserving the Night Sky: A Discussion with Ian Muirhead

Space Café Radio

Preserving the Night Sky: Addressing Satellite Interference with Astronomer Ian Muirhead

In this episode of Space Café Radio, host Torsten Kriening interviews Ian Muirhead, a researcher from the University of Manchester's Space Systems Research Group. They discuss the growing concerns about satellite interference with terrestrial astronomy, the importance of preserving the natural night sky, and the impacts of radio and optical interference caused by satellite constellations. The conversation delves into potential solutions and the need for collaboration between astronomers, policymakers, and satellite operators to find a balance between technological advancement and environmental preservation.
Useful links:

• Ian's Research Profile
• UNOOSA Conference Room Paper on the Protection of Dark and Quiet Skies for science and society
• ESO - Dark Skies Preservation
• GRAVES radar

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Capitoli

1. Introduction to the Night Sky Concerns (00:00:00)

2. Meet the Expert: Ian Muirhead (00:01:23)

3. The Importance of Dark Skies (00:02:15)

4. Challenges to Astronomy from Satellites (00:03:16)

5. The Dark and Quiet Skies Initiative (00:10:15)

6. Future of Satellite Constellations (00:22:48)

7. Balancing Technology and Astronomy (00:27:41)

8. The Way Forward (00:33:03)