Mitigating satellite trails through retroreflective coatings: A proposal for preserving the night sky

Acta Astronautica 2026 Open access

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Authors: Tobias Degen, John C. Barentine, Gyula I G Józsa, Thomas Walter, Jacqueline Degen
DOI: 10.1016/j.actaastro.2026.01.042
Cited by: 0
References: 24

Abstract

We propose retroreflective coatings on satellites to mitigate sunlight reflections that cause disruptive trails in astronomical observations. By redirecting sunlight back toward the Sun, this approach reduces apparent brightness without creating thermal burdens, while also enhancing satellite tracking capabilities—offering a timely and practical pathway to address impacts from growing satellite constellations.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Impact of Light on Environment and Health Space Satellite Systems and Control Spacecraft Dynamics and Control

Publication details

Journal / source
Acta Astronautica
Volume
243
Pages
202–206
Publication date
20 January 2026
Language
EN