ESO: SpaceX plans to launch 1M satellites for space-based data centres
SpaceX has announced plans to launch approximately one million satellites to create space-based data centres, according to the European Southern Observatory (ESO). The massive satellite constellation would significantly increase the number of objects in orbit, raising concerns about light pollution and interference with astronomical observations.
Background
- European Southern Observatory (ESO) is warning that SpaceX plans to launch roughly 1 million satellites to build space-based data centres — a massive expansion beyond the ~12,000 Starlink satellites already approved/planned.
- SpaceX already operates the largest satellite constellation (Starlink) for internet; this new proposal would orbit an order of magnitude more satellites, raising serious concerns among astronomers.
- ESO's main concern: thousands of bright, fast-moving satellites would severely interfere with ground-based optical telescopes (e.g., the Very Large Telescope and upcoming Extremely Large Telescope), leaving bright streaks across images and contaminating scientific data.
- The proposal highlights growing tension between commercial space mega-projects and astronomy, mirroring earlier fights over Starlink's brightness, satellite trails in telescope images, and radio interference from satellite transmissions.
- No regulatory approval has been granted; discussion occurs as international space traffic management and orbital debris rules remain underdeveloped.