Nugent FCC Letter - PD
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michaelkan1Nugent FCC Letter - PD
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michaelkan1Olin College of Engineering
1000 Olin Way
Needham, MA 02492
cnugent@[Link]
Ms. Marlene H. Dortch, Secretary,
Federal Communications Commission
45 L Street N.E.
Washington D.C. 20554
September 30th, 2022
Re: SpaceX/Starlink Gen 2 proposal
IBFS File No. SAT-LOA-202000526-00055
IBFS File No. SAT-AMD-20210818-00105
Dear Ms. Dorch,
I would like to encourage the FCC to fully assess the risks posed by the proposed application, and any
application of similar scope. I am an Associate Professor of Computational Physics and Planetary Science
at the Olin College of Engineering, and my research focuses on near-Earth asteroids, or planetary defense.
This summer, I conducted a survey of planetary defense experts in partnership with Apollo Academic
Surveys. Respondents were internationally recognized experts in asteroid detection, impact dynamics, and
mitigation. They were asked, “There has been a rapid increase in the number of artificial satellites
launched, with US Federal Communications Commission filings indicating that tens of thousands could
be launched in coming years. How concerned are you about these satellites directly or indirectly (via
Kessler syndrome) interfering with near-Earth object discovery?”
100% of respondents answered that they were at least “slightly concerned,” and 42% said they were
“seriously concerned” or “extremely concerned.” The full response data is available on the Apollo
Academic Surveys website.
An asteroid impact is a preventable natural disaster. But prevention is only possible with early discovery
of these objects. I am concerned that these satellite launches will interfere with the vital task of near-Earth
asteroid discovery, meaning we won’t have the warning we need to deflect an Earth-bound asteroid. I ask
that these risks be carefully considered by the FCC.
Satellites have long provided benefit to humanity. For over sixty years, artificial satellites have not
significantly interfered with asteroid discovery. Unfortunately, that appears to be rapidly changing. I urge
a thorough evaluation of the environmental risks and benefits of the proposed application.
Sincerely,
Carrie R. Nugent, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Computational Physics and Planetary Science
Olin College of Engineering
