DarkSky endorses the Dark and Quiet Skies Act

DarkSky International proudly endorses the Dark and Quiet Skies Act, a pivotal bill championed by Senators John Hickenlooper (D-CO) and Mike Crapo (R-ID). While the Act represents a crucial step forward in addressing the DarkSky community’s concerns about satellite proliferation, we also recognize its limitations and advocate for continued action.

As we stand on the brink of a new frontier in satellite technology—with projections suggesting an increase from the current 9,000 satellites to over 500,000 by 2030—the urgency for proactive measures has become paramount. While limited in its current scope, this bipartisan effort signals growing awareness across the political spectrum of the need to address the rapid expansion of satellites, which threatens the integrity of our global night skies.

“DarkSky International endorses the Dark and Quiet Skies Act as a crucial step against satellite proliferation. While aimed at protecting astronomical research, we urge expanding the dialogue to include more voices. Dark skies enrich rural economies, preserve Indigenous knowledge, protect nocturnal ecosystems, and inspire wonder. Our cosmic view is a shared heritage that we all have a stake in protecting.”

– Ruskin Hartley, CEO, DarkSky International

What the Dark and Quiet Skies Act will do

Establish a Center of Excellence 

If signed into law, the Dark and Quiet Skies Act will establish a Center of Excellence under the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). This center will serve as a hub for collaboration among scientists, industry leaders, and government agencies, focusing on developing innovative solutions to reduce satellite impact on the night sky through a multidisciplinary approach.

Fund research to mitigate satellite impacts

The Act authorizes the allocation of $20 million from 2025 to 2030 for targeted research projects. These initiatives will aim to reduce satellite interference across optical, infrared, and radio wavelengths, with a particular focus on protecting astronomical research and observations.

Develop guidelines for best practices 

The Center will also create and disseminate voluntary best practices for satellite operators and astronomers, providing a framework to minimize the impact of satellites on astronomical research. While the Center won’t have regulatory authority, these guidelines will serve as a crucial foundation for industry-wide standards and responsible satellite deployment.

A small step forward, but a giant leap remains

While the Act is a significant step forward, it is important to recognize its limitations. The Center of Excellence will focus on developing guidelines rather than exercising regulatory authority, which may limit its overall impact and effectiveness. Moreover, the Act primarily addresses optical light and radio interference to protect astronomical research, tackling only one aspect of the broader issue of satellite proliferation, such as cultural impacts.

DarkSky represents a growing community united by diverse concerns about our night skies, extending beyond scientific pursuits. We remain in constant communication with a wide variety of stakeholders who not only cherish the night sky but also rely on it as a resource for economic growth, cultural preservation, and much more.

Additional community concerns about satellite proliferation 

Economic impacts to the astrotourism industry

DarkSky International supports the thriving astrotourism industry, which brings substantial economic benefits, particularly to rural communities. Astrotourism’s popularity continues to surge, with Forbes listing it as the top travel trend to watch in 2024. States like Utah and Colorado, and countries like New Zealand, are already tapping into these benefits, which have proven to generate millions of dollars.

DarkSky’s International Dark Sky Places Program, which includes categories for Parks,  Reserves, Sanctuaries, and Communities, as well as a new DarkSky Approved Lodging program, sets rigorous, scientifically grounded standards for dark sky locations based on the Five Principles for Responsible Outdoor Lighting at Night (ROLAN). This ensures that certified places are indeed exceptional travel destinations for those seeking pristine, star-filled skies.

However, satellite proliferation poses a threat to this industry and the economic boost that communities depend on. Projections suggest that if peak satellite deployment is reached, one in every 15 visible “stars” could be a moving satellite. This could significantly alter the experience of gazing at the night sky, with pristine views of the cosmos potentially cluttered by satellite reflections, diminishing the wonder and awe travelers seek.

Environmental threats posed by satellite emissions and debris

The environmental impact of satellite decommissioning is considerable, with an estimated 29 tons of satellite materials re-entering our atmosphere daily at peak deployment. This could have far-reaching consequences for our environment, a concern amplified by the increased frequency of rocket launches required to maintain these mega-constellations. These launches release significant amounts of soot into the atmosphere, potentially affecting our climate and ozone layer in ways we’re only beginning to understand. 

Diminishing a shared cultural heritage

The night sky holds profound cultural significance worldwide. Our view and connection to it have and continue to inform religious beliefs, enhance scientific understanding, and inspire artistic discovery and expression. The night sky is a universal heritage connecting humanity to its cosmic roots.

Indigenous communities view dark sky preservation as crucial to cultural continuity, with many seeing light pollution and satellite proliferation as a form of continued colonialism, threatening traditional knowledge, ceremonies, and cosmovision. 

For more information about the threats posed by satellite proliferation and how dark skies are vital to so many aspects of our world, and to learn what you can do to protect dark skies and the nighttime environment, visit www.darksky.org.