Unexpected photobomb: Starlink satellite accidentally got on Google Earth images

 

Starlink satellite was captured on Google Earth images during its flight over Texas

In an unexpected and rare case, a Starlink satellite was captured on Google Earth images during its flight over Texas. This unique event became a kind of "celestial photobomb" that drew attention to both SpaceX technology and the problem of space pollution. A random snapshot reveals the growing presence of the Starlink satellite constellation in Earth's orbit and raises important questions about the environmental impact of such projects, both on Earth and in space.

Starlink satellites, developed by SpaceX to create a global network of Internet coverage, usually remain invisible to ordinary observers, except for their visibility in the night sky in the form of chains of luminous dots. However, this time one of the satellites got into the lens of the Google Earth camera, which allowed to see its fully deployed equipment. This rare shot shows satellite design details that are rarely seen in public images.

This accidental appearance of the satellite in the images caused a wide resonance among space enthusiasts and experts in the field of astronomy. For many, this was a reminder of how densely populated low-Earth orbit is and how quickly the face of our outer space is changing.

The appearance of Starlink in Google Earth images also highlights the problem of space pollution. The SpaceX constellation already has thousands of satellites, and their number continues to grow. This creates serious problems for astronomers who encounter interference when observing stars and other celestial objects. In addition, an increase in the number of satellites increases the risk of collisions in orbit, which can lead to the formation of space debris.

Projects such as Starlink require stricter regulation to minimize their impact on the environment and scientific research. Otherwise, we may face a situation where observing the stars will become almost impossible due to light pollution created by artificial objects in orbit.