Tell the US State Department: Technology to make satellites fainter should not be secret information

The US State Department is asking for input on whether or not technology that makes satellites fainter should be subject to ITAR regulations. If this technology is subject to ITAR regulations, that means that satellite builders are not allowed to share any information on technology and techniques they have developed to keep their satellites fainter.

Keeping this information secret means that other companies and countries cannot benefit from each other’s satellite brightness mitigations. We strongly support sharing information that will lead to satellites being as dark as possible, because that will help save astronomy research and recreational stargazing, worldwide.

The call for public comment is buried in this giant pdf (search for “satellite signature reduction” to find the relevant text).

Submit your comment:

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Cite Docket Number DOS-2024-0035, RIN 1400-AE73

Sample Text:

The thousands of new satellites that have launched in the past five years are severely disrupting stargazing and astronomy research.  Some satellite operators have put time and effort into making their satellites less reflective and quieter in radio wavelengths.  Sharing techniques and technologies that help to mitigate the negative effects of satellites on astronomy should not be curtailed by ITAR regulations.  

I support exempting satellite signature reduction from ITAR regulations.  This will allow satellite operators to share technologies for reducing the brightness of their satellites, helping to mitigate the effects of satellites on astronomy research and stargazing.