The International Astronomical Union’s Centre for the Protection of the Dark and Quiet Sky from Satellite Constellation Interference (IAU CPS) coordinates global efforts to mitigate satellite constellations’ impacts on optical and radio astronomy. Co-hosted by NSF’s NOIRLab, the SKA Observatory, and ESO it connects astronomers, industry, policymakers and other stakeholders to develop technical solutions, share information and promote responsible practices
- ID Number
- 2
- Entity Name
- International Astronomical Union
- Country
- France
- Type of Organisation
- International Union (NGO)
- Type of Entry
- Organisation
- Technology Readiness Level (TRL)
- N/A
- Contact details
- Last checked
- Link to webpage
- https://cps.iau.org/ (opens in a new tab)
Abstract
Description
The International Astronomical Union’s Centre for the Protection of the Dark and Quiet Sky from Satellite Constellation Interference (IAU CPS) coordinates international efforts to mitigate the impacts of satellite constellations on optical, infrared and radio astronomy, as well as the broader human experience of the night sky. Co-hosted by NSF NOIRLab, the SKA Observatory (SKAO), and the European Southern Observatory (ESO) the Centre organises its activities across four specialised hubs.
SatHub supports the collection and analysis of satellite observations to characterise interference and inform mitigation strategies. Its resources include SatChecker, which predicts satellite transits across specified fields of view, and SCORE (Satellite Constellation Observation REpository), which enables observers to share satellite brightness measurements.
The Industry and Technology Hub facilitates collaboration between astronomers, satellite operators and manufacturers. It provides technical briefings, guidance on mitigation practices and an Astronomer Guide programme, pairing industry representatives with astronomers for confidential technical advice. It also encourages the exchange and development of practical mitigation solutions.
The Policy Hub examines national and international policy and regulatory frameworks relevant to satellite constellations and their effects on astronomy. It supports engagement with policymakers and international forums, including the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS).
The Community Engagement Hub connects the astronomical community with wider society and groups affected by changes to the night sky, including Indigenous communities. It promotes awareness, dialogue and consideration of the night sky’s scientific, cultural and societal significance.
Technical classification
- Technical Domains
-
- TD6 UNDERSTAND AND MITIGATE ADVERSE CONSEQUENCES OF SPACE OBJECTS AND DEBRIS
- Needs
-
- 6.2 PROTECT DARK AND QUIET SKIES
- Solutions
-
- 6.2.A Prediction and mitigation of the unintended emission from space objects and debris to protect the integrity of astronomical observations
- 6.2.B Prediction of interference caused by intended electromagnetic emissions
Evidence for TRL
N/A