Robots Against Space Glare

Many astronomers in Ohio state parks have begun to notice new "stars" in their astronomy shots. As more satellites are launched into orbit, the glare from their solar panels is becoming a growing problem. Sunlight reflecting off these panels is visible from Earth, where it adds to light pollution in the night sky for astronomers and everyday stargazers alike. To address this, we need a way to greatly reduce the glare the panels give off while still allowing them to absorb enough light to power the satellites they serve.

One opportunity is a solar robot that applies sheets of non-reflective shielding to satellites' solar arrays. Adding this shielding will greatly reduce the light pollution these satellites give off and clear the view for astronomers. The robot will carry rolls of shielding that attach magnetically to the arrays. It will travel from satellite to satellite, adding the shielding to satellites already in orbit.

This idea does come with drawbacks, however. The robots will require a large amount of energy to produce and launch, as well as to operate in space. They will also add to space clutter, and many rolls of shielding will be needed to cover every satellite. In addition, the robots will need extensive programming and precise location data to do their job.