Quote:
Originally Posted by multiweb
I think peppering the night sky with junk is incredibly selfish whatever the reason.
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Yes, I can see how many astronomers (myself included) can see how Mr Musk's satellites might destroy viewing to some degree. And yes, it could be viewed as "selfish". But he is in the process of miniaturizing them all ... as much as possible. The plan is to bring hi speed internet to EVERY NATION on Earth. A very commendable plan. And maybe make a zillion dollars at the same time!
So what came first, the chicken or the zillion dollars - Ooops I mean EGG?
But calling it "junk" is surprising! They are state of the art programmable satellites. Skynet (Terminator) might come true yet.
12,000 satellites will / might also increase the risk of collision at LEO, something spaceX is furiously working on. In the event of war however is where I think spaceX will also shine. Adversaries will not be able to destroy all of his satellites and the West's. Especially as Musk can send them up faster than anyone can shoot them down. But that is all conjecture. The reality is he is sending starships and humans to the moon and mars and I believe he will succeed in that venture ... as do many backers (NASA) overseas etc.
