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Dark and Quiet Skies
The protection of the night sky and radio-quiet environment from the effects of large satellite constellations on astronomy.
"Dark and quiet skies" refers to growing concern that large satellite constellations affect optical astronomy (through reflected sunlight creating bright trails) and radio astronomy (through unwanted emissions).
International bodies, including under the auspices of the UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, have examined recommendations for operators to reduce brightness, share orbital information, and protect radio-quiet zones. Some regulators now ask applicants to consider these impacts.
It is an emerging sustainability dimension alongside debris mitigation.