[User23]

That depends on how dark the area is. I heard that in a Bortle 5 or lower area they are naked eye visible, which really sucks for stargazers. Especially since some of the more interesting naked eye observations have to be done using peripheral vision.

[Diederich]

I know that these sats will affect many telescopic observations, but that's been happening a long time.

I understand that this interference will end up being several times more frequent. However, for many years, satellite streaks have been algorithmically removed from observations. It's possible that those algorithms will need to be upgraded.

That's a small price to pay in exchange for robust and high speed Internet becoming available to huge numbers of people all over the world.

[User23]

I have a Starlink deposit down and I still have my doubts about the merits of that trade-off. My reasoning is amateur astronomy is ruined anyhow so I may as well be able to stream Netflix on more devices and as a side benefit tech monopolies will be able to further extend their influence.

Which, frankly, feels rather sordid.

And in any event Starlink is nothing compared to the assholes planning satellite billboards.

[Diederich]

The real good that will come out of Starlink isn't from people like you and I, it'll be from people very poor countries and regions.

The money you and I put into it are bootstrapping bringing Internet access to hundreds of millions who would otherwise not get it.

[m4rtink]

Not to mention Starlink also indirectly funding Starship, the first realistic attempt on a full RLV. That in itself is HUGE and can bring immeasurable good in the future by opening acces to space for many.

[Diederich]

I've been unable to see them in class 2 areas.

I'm a pretty ardent stargazer.

[User23]

It sounds like your visual acuity might not be that great. Sadly, enthusiasm can’t overcome physical limitations.

[mlindner]

In what location can you see naked eye visibility down to 6th magnitude? You must have really good eyes.

[User23]

In the 19th century before light pollution naked eye observers managed well into the 7s.