Protecting Astronomers from Space Adverts

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the proposal by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to amend regulations regarding advertising in space, particularly focusing on the potential impact of large advertisements on astronomical observations and the night sky.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express concern that large advertisements in space could obstruct astronomical observations and degrade the visual quality of the night sky.
  • Others share a humorous perspective, suggesting that such advertisements could lead to absurd scenarios, like fondue ads resulting from melting the moon's surface.
  • One participant mentions the potential for personal projects, like carving initials on the moon, in a lighthearted manner.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that large space advertisements would be undesirable for astronomers and the aesthetics of the night sky, but the discussion includes a mix of serious concerns and humorous takes.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not delve into the specifics of the FAA's regulatory authority or the technical implications of space advertising, leaving those aspects unresolved.

Who May Find This Useful

Astronomers, space enthusiasts, and individuals interested in space policy may find this discussion relevant.

Phobos
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http://www.cnn.com/2005/TECH/space/05/20/space.advertising.reut/index.html

The Federal Aviation Administration proposed Thursday to amend its regulations to ensure that it can enforce a law that prohibits "obtrusive" advertising in zero gravity...
Currently, the FAA lacks the authority to enforce the existing law.
For instance, outsized billboards deployed by a space company into low Earth orbit could appear as large as the moon and be seen without a telescope, the FAA said. Big and bright advertisements might hinder astronomers.
"Large advertisements could destroy the darkness of the night sky," regulators said.

color me happily shocked
go FAA!
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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I've heard of this. It would be pretty annoying, and would make the skies look ugly. Anyone using a telescope would be very annoyed, go FAA!
 
This will ensure that I get a clean shot when I try to carve my initials on the surface of the moon with a giant laser beam.
 
You'll melt the cheese, than there'll be fondue ads :biggrin:
 

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