Former NASA Scientist Warns that Starlink Satellites Could Erode Earth's Magnetic Field

A former NASA scientist has raised concerns that the growing number of Starlink satellites launched by Elon Musk's SpaceX could potentially erode Earth's magnetic field and slowly poison everyone.

Dr. Sierra Solter-Hunt, a plasma physicist who now serves as the CEO of a consultancy business, conducted a study suggesting that the large number of satellites in orbit could distort the Earth's magnetic field in a way that might lead to the loss of the planet's atmosphere, similar to what has happened on Mars.

According to Dr. Solter-Hunt's study, which has not been peer-reviewed, SpaceX is burning up over 2,755 lbs (1.3 tons) of wireless internet satellite junk into Earth's atmosphere per hour. This debris is resulting in the formation of a metal layer known as 'conductive particulate' in orbit. Dr. Solter-Hunt warns that this buildup of metal dust could trap the magnetic field that prevents Earth's atmosphere from leaving, potentially leading to 'atmospheric stripping.'

Why this matters: The potential impact of the growing number of satellites in orbit on Earth's magnetic field and atmosphere raises significant concerns about the long-term sustainability and safety of satellite constellations. The study highlights the need for further research and regulation to address the potential environmental consequences of the rapidly expanding space industry.

The study estimates that the collective number of satellites is currently about 10,000, which is likely to increase to 100,000 in the next 10-15 years. Dr. Solter-Hunt argues that by that time, the effects on the magnetosphere could become too late to mitigate, calling it an "unplanned geoengineering experiment." She emphasizes that the space industry needs to stop using the ionosphere and atmosphere as a "trash bin" immediately.

While some commenters express skepticism about the claims, noting that the Earth's magnetic field is primarily generated by the rotating core, not by particles in orbit, there is a general agreement that the growing deployment of satellites into low-Earth orbit must be addressed. The potential for Kessler syndrome, where the increasing amount of space junk makes it impossible to have satellites in space, is also a concern highlighted in the article.

Dr. Solter-Hunt's study, which was reported by the Daily Mail, a publication known for questionable credibility, has not been peer-reviewed. SpaceX and Elon Musk have not yet responded to the claims made in the study. As the number of satellites in orbit continues to grow, the scientific community and space industry will need to carefully consider the potential environmental impact and develop strategies to mitigate any harmful effects on Earth's magnetic field and atmosphere.

Key Takeaways

• An ex-NASA scientist has warned that Starlink satellites could erode Earth's magnetosphere.
• The study claims satellites burn up 1.3 tons of debris per hour, forming conductive particulate.
• A buildup of metal dust could trap the magnetic field, leading to atmospheric stripping.
• The potential impact on the magnetosphere raises concerns about satellite constellations' sustainability.
• Study not peer-reviewed, but highlights need for research and regulation on space industry.