A recent editorial in Nature Astronomy warns that astronomy is facing growing pressures from both technological developments in space and policy decisions on Earth.
The article highlights satellite megaconstellations as a major “threat from above,” noting that their brightness and radio emissions are increasingly contaminating astronomical observations—even for space-based telescopes. Planned large-scale expansions could worsen the situation significantly, potentially affecting nearly all observations. At the same time, “threats from below” include funding uncertainties and shifting political priorities, with recent proposals for substantial budget cuts in major research systems raising concerns about the long-term sustainability of astronomy and its workforce. The editorial concludes that astronomers must take a more active role in advocating for their field, emphasizing that astronomy’s scientific, technological, and societal value makes it essential to protect.