Story perspectives

Amazon's Satellites Threaten Astronomical Research, Study Warns

1/26/2026

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Summary

Story summary

A study finds Amazon's low-Earth-orbit satellites may disrupt astronomical research, as they exceed International Astronomical Union (IAU) brightness limits, with an average apparent magnitude of 6.28.
Amazon has launched 180 satellites and plans to expand to more than 3,200.
Astronomers, including Anthony Mallama, the study's lead author, commend Amazon for engaging the astronomy community to mitigate visibility, noting sunlight-reflecting designs show some success since 2023.

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Story summary

A study finds Amazon's low-Earth-orbit satellites may disrupt astronomical research, as they exceed International Astronomical Union (IAU) brightness limits, with an average apparent magnitude of 6.28.
Amazon has launched 180 satellites and plans to expand to more than 3,200.
Astronomers, including Anthony Mallama, the study's lead author, commend Amazon for engaging the astronomy community to mitigate visibility, noting sunlight-reflecting designs show some success since 2023.