Satellite fleets pose problems for space telescopes, too: Proposed "megaconstellations" would contaminate images from telescopes in low-Earth orbit, including Hubble.

The article discusses the impact of proposed satellite "megaconstellations" on astronomical observations, particularly from space-based telescopes. A study by NASA researchers reveals that the anticipated launch of 500,000 satellites by 2040 will significantly contaminate images from telescopes like Hubble and China's upcoming Xuntian, with Hubble expected to have one-third of its images affected by satellite streaks. The study highlights the challenges faced by wide-field survey telescopes, such as the Vera C. Rubin Observatory, which will likely capture multiple streaks in each image. The authors suggest potential mitigations, including limiting satellite altitudes and improving satellite location data, but astronomers express skepticism about the feasibility of these solutions. [Extracted from the article]