BlueWalker 3 satellite

05 Oct 2023 3 mins Download PDF

BlueWalker 3 satellite

1. It is a prototype satellite, part of a satellite constellation planned by its owner AST SpaceMobile.
2. The satellite is intended to deliver mobile or broadband services anywhere in the world.
3. BlueWalker 3 was observed as one of the brightest objects in the night sky, outshining all but the brightest stars.
4. However, concerns are raised around these constellations because,
   1. 1. 1. they have higher potential to disrupt night sky observations being closer to the earth location and its relatively large size.
         2. Masking their position can lead to losing data for that portion of the sky.
         3. It can hamper radio astronomy as it uses wavelengths close to those that radio telescopes.