Description
The IAU Centre for the Protection of the Dark and Quiet Sky from Satellite Constellation Interference (IAU CPS) was formed in response to ever-increasing numbers of satellites, particularly in low-Earth orbit constellations. It has four hubs, including SatHub, Policy, Community Engagement, and Industry & Technology hubs. Of these, SatHub focuses on observation campaigns, brightness data analysis, and software curation to improve our understanding of the impact of satellite constellations on observers worldwide. SatHub works with astronomers and sky observers across all wavelengths. SatHub is developing online services to simplify satellite constellation mitigation in astronomical observation planning, such as a satellite pass prediction tool, SatChecker, and the Satellite Constellation Observation REpository (SCORE), a database of measured satellite brightnesses.
I will briefly introduce the IAU CPS, its main areas of work, accomplishments and ongoing efforts, along with its activities to protect Dark and Quiet Skies at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and at the UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS). I will share what SatHub has learnt so far about the effectiveness of mitigations through its observing campaigns and tools like SCORE, and look to the future for what may be coming next with the launch of future satellite constellations.
