Threat to Astronomy by Space Art

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe Light Ring, proposed as a celebration of the centenary of the Eiffel Tower, and now withdrawn by its sponsors, demonstrated the feasibility to launch relatively inexpensive satellites which subtend an appreciable solid angle as seen from earth. Other satellites in the competition organized by the Eiffel Tower proposed configurations under the name of Space Art which could unacceptably increase the night sky background. Satellites of this nature, launched for noble but essentially frivolous motives, pose a threat to optical astronomy.