Yhn ScienceScience first seen 12 h ago, last 5 min ago, peak #4
Starlink satellite drift could track weather from orbit
Original: Astronomer watches Starlink satellites sinking to build a 'planetary barometer'
An astronomer is tracking the gradual orbital decay of Starlink satellites, using their sinking altitudes as a kind of 'planetary barometer' to gauge density changes in the upper atmosphere. Because satellite drag responds to solar activity and atmospheric heating, the constellation's thousands of spacecraft could double as a global measuring network. The approach highlights ongoing tension between the megaconstellation and observational astronomy.
Why now: The novel idea of repurposing SpaceX's Starlink fleet as a scientific instrument is generating attention among space and science readers.
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