SpaceX launches 60 more satellites, trying to tone them down

SpaceX has launched 60 more mini internet satellites, this time testing a dark coating to appease stargazers. The Falcon 9 rocket blasted off from Cape Canaveral, Florida, late yesterday, recycled for its fourth flight. As the first-stage booster flew to a vertical landing on an ocean platform, the Starlink satellites hurtled toward orbit to join 120 similar spacecraft launched last year. One of the new satellites is trying out a dark coating to lessen reflectivity. It's a "first step" compromise between SpaceX and astronomers fearful of having dark skies spoiled by hundreds and, eventually, thousands of bright satellites circling overhead.

 

Previous
Previous

California gorilla treated for cataract

Next
Next

Facebook bans deepfakes in fight against online manipulation