Satellite Constellations as an Issue in Space Law

Abstract

Satellite constellations constitute significant threat to ground-based optical astronomy as well as radio astronomy.Thousands of satellites are planned to be placed in low-Earth orbit (LEO), and several hundreds of them are plannedfor higher orbits such as MEO. International astronomical community has been discussing the issue with its alldimensions; need for proper regulations, national space policies, and international agreements. This contributionis intended to define the issue and its impact on astronomical observations.