Institute of Physics: Mitigation of Light Pollution due to Artificial Satellites

This lecture explores the growing problem of light pollution caused by artificial satellites and what it means for astronomy. It is led by Astha Chaturvedi, a PhD researcher in astrophysics at the University of Surrey, who has been working on ways to reduce the brightness of satellites in low Earth orbit.

The talk looks at research into an ultra-black coating designed to reduce reflected sunlight from satellites, helping to bring their brightness closer to accepted thresholds for light pollution. It also covers the experimental work behind the project, including brightness simulations, radiation exposure tests, scanning electron microscope imaging and electrical conductivity measurements, as well as the wider scientific and policy implications for space sustainability.