Description
The dark and quiet sky must be protected to avoid deteriorating astronomical research but also for its cultural and societal significance. Consequently, the satellite brightness
characterisation and reduction are covered by the new Zero Debris Charter and ESA's Zero Debris space debris mitigation requirements, and accordingly addressed in the Zero Debris Technology booklet.
ESA is implementing approaches to understand the impact of its current and future missions, and to lead in responsible spacecraft design and operations that minimise the impact.
New materials, manufacturing processes, operational modes, coordination means, and compliance assessment and verification methods need to be developed to reduce the optical and RF signature and allow building dark and quiet spacecrafts. Specific challenges in the verification of some requirements are highlighted.
Currently running and planned activities in ESA’s Space Safety and Technology Development programme will be presented, e.g. brightness characterisation from ground, in laboratory facilities, and using simulation software.
