Protecting Astronomers from Space Adverts

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In summary, the FAA proposed to amend its regulations to enforce a law against "obtrusive" advertising in zero gravity. Currently, they do not have the authority to do so. The agency is concerned about outsized billboards in low Earth orbit that could obstruct the view of the night sky and hinder astronomers. This proposal aims to prevent such advertising and preserve the darkness of the sky.
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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!
 
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  • #2
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!
 
  • #3
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.
 
  • #4
You'll melt the cheese, than there'll be fondue ads :biggrin:
 

1. How do space adverts affect astronomers?

Space adverts can affect astronomers in a few different ways. Firstly, they can create light pollution which can hinder astronomical observations and research. Secondly, they can interfere with radio signals used for astronomy, such as those from satellites and telescopes. Lastly, space adverts can also disrupt the natural view of the night sky, which is a valuable resource for astronomers.

2. What steps are being taken to protect astronomers from space adverts?

There are a few steps being taken to protect astronomers from space adverts. One is the use of regulations and policies to limit the placement and brightness of space adverts. Another is the development of technologies, such as adaptive optics, to mitigate the effects of light pollution and interference on astronomical observations. Additionally, education and awareness efforts are being made to highlight the impact of space adverts on astronomy.

3. Are there any international laws or agreements in place to protect astronomers from space adverts?

Yes, there are international laws and agreements in place to protect astronomers from space adverts. The United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) has established the Space Debris Mitigation Guidelines which include measures to minimize the creation of space debris, including limiting the use of bright and reflective materials in space advertising. Additionally, the International Astronomical Union (IAU) has a working group dedicated to addressing the issue of space debris and its impact on astronomy.

4. Can space adverts be beneficial for astronomy?

There is a potential for space adverts to be beneficial for astronomy if they are strategically placed and designed in a way that minimizes their impact on astronomical observations. For example, space adverts could be used to fund and support space-based research and technology that could benefit astronomers. However, careful consideration must be given to their placement and design to ensure they do not interfere with astronomical observations.

5. What can individuals do to help protect astronomers from space adverts?

Individuals can help protect astronomers from space adverts by supporting efforts to raise awareness about the impact of space advertising on astronomy. This can include spreading information about light pollution and its effects on the night sky, as well as advocating for stricter regulations and policies on space advertising. Additionally, individuals can also reduce their own light pollution by using energy-efficient and shielded outdoor lighting.

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