Slightlydifficult t1_iu9tydr wrote on October 29, 2022 at 5:59 PM

We need some global regulatory authority on space launches. Billionaires being able to fill the sky with satellites is very concerning when you consider the dangers of space junk trapping us here.

Mntfrd_Graverobber t1_iua99qo wrote on October 29, 2022 at 7:47 PM

I believe they are putting the finishing touches on a treaty where all satellites will need to have the capacity to deorbit in order to get launch permission. Fortunately that isn't an issue for Starlink because SpaceX thought of that.

Slightlydifficult t1_iuacdr8 wrote on October 29, 2022 at 8:10 PM

Love to hear it! I’m not surprised SpaceX had that in mind given their moonshot goals.

404_Gordon_Not_Found t1_iuavxvj wrote on October 29, 2022 at 10:34 PM

Also, having unintended space junk left behind only hurts their business, so it is in their interest to make sure they have good control over their satellites.

Shrike99 t1_iubs17r wrote on October 30, 2022 at 2:56 AM

SpaceX aren't the only ones. OneWeb and Iridium are also advocating for better regulation of low earth orbit.

TheBaenAddict t1_iubdyn9 wrote on October 30, 2022 at 12:57 AM

The US already has a brand new policy in place requiring a deorbit within five years of satellite decommissioning: https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2022/09/fcc-requires-faster-de-orbiting-of-satellites-to-prevent-low-earth-orbit-debris/

Due to the timing of this rule Starlink is largely exempt, but SpaceX will be blowing these requirements out of the water anyway.

HecknChonker t1_iu9ysp0 wrote on October 29, 2022 at 6:33 PM

Maybe it's better for the universe if we don't leave.