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Identify the Starlink subsystem causing broadband unintended emission

Identify the specific Starlink spacecraft subsystem or component responsible for producing broadband unintended electromagnetic radiation detected across approximately 73–235 MHz (and occasionally above 200 MHz), and determine whether the source is propulsion, avionics, or another subsystem active at operational altitudes.

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Background

Widespread broadband UEMR from Starlink satellites is detected by EDA2 within the SKA-Low frequency range, including ITU-protected bands. Previous communication suggested propulsion or avionics as possible sources during orbit raising, but the present paper observes similar emission at operational altitude and across a broad spectral range, including periodic spectral structure.

Pinpointing the hardware origin is essential for regulatory engagement, mitigation strategies, and engineering changes that could reduce or eliminate UEMR impacting sensitive radio astronomy observations, including EoR experiments.

References

Currently, the specific component of the satellite that causes this unintended emission is unknown.

The Growing Impact of Unintended Starlink Broadband Emission on Radio Astronomy in the SKA-Low Frequency Range (2506.02831 - Grigg et al., 3 Jun 2025) in Section 4 (Discussion and conclusions)