Can Satellite Mega-Constellations Justify their Impact on Astronomy?

Abstract

Private space companies are increasingly commercializing near-earth space. Some estimates show that more than 100,000 satellites may orbit the Earth by 2030. This increase in the number of satellites has many consequences for science, particularly astronomy. Satellite mega-constellations for satellite Internet connectivity are one of the main drivers behind the explosion in the number of satellites. Here, we briefly note whether such satellite mega-constellations can justify their impact on astronomy.