The increasing commercialization of space brings exciting advancements, but also raises concerns about the potential for obtrusive space advertising. The American Astronomical Society (AAS) has issued a statement highlighting the threat to our scientific understanding of the universe from various space activities, including the potential for giant billboards in low Earth orbit.
The Threat of Space Billboards
The AAS argues that obtrusive space advertising should be internationally prohibited through conventions, treaties, or laws. The United States already has a federal ban on “obtrusive space advertising,” defined as advertising visible from Earth without a telescope. This ban protects the sky as a shared resource for all humanity. However, this protection only applies to U.S. launches, leaving a loophole for other nations to potentially launch space billboards visible worldwide. This is why a global ban is crucial.
Commercial Interest in Orbital Advertising
Several companies have already expressed interest in space advertising. Russian companies Avant Space and StartRocket explored this concept, with a reported contract between a PepsiCo subsidiary and StartRocket to promote a drink from space. Although these plans were ultimately shelved after initial tests, the interest remains. Images on StartRocket’s social media depicting their proposed technology, involving arrays of satellites with reflective sails forming logos, met with widespread criticism. Such displays would function similarly to large-scale drone shows, which are increasingly replacing traditional fireworks. StartRocket envisioned using satellites with 30-foot-wide reflective sails, arranged to form words or logos visible from Earth.
The Privatization of Space and Its Implications
This push for a ban coincides with a boom in private spaceflight. Private companies now send missions to the International Space Station, and agencies like NASA increasingly rely on private companies like SpaceX for launches. This rapid growth of private space companies complicates regulation and communication, as their diverse interests, goals, and operating modes differ significantly from government agencies. Their potential interest in space advertising presents a significant challenge.
The Impact of Satellite Constellations
While not used for advertising, large satellite constellations also contribute to the clutter in low Earth orbit. These constellations create streaks in telescope images, although scientists are working on software solutions to mitigate this issue. The sheer number of satellites further emphasizes the need for responsible space management.
Protecting Our Shared Heritage
Light pollution is a growing global problem, as documented by NOIRLab’s Globe at Night project. Space-based advertising would exacerbate this issue, hindering both public enjoyment and scientific observation of the night sky. It would also occupy valuable space in an already crowded low Earth orbit. The night sky holds cultural and historical significance, connecting us to our ancestors and inspiring awe and wonder. Privatizing this shared resource for commercial gain would represent a profound loss.
The Path Forward
While the international community’s willingness to embrace a global ban remains uncertain, the AAS is urging the U.S. delegation to the United Nation’s Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space to advocate for keeping the skies free from commercial advertisements. Protecting the night sky from commercial exploitation is essential for preserving its scientific, cultural, and inspirational value for future generations.
