Investigating Unexplained Aerial Phenomena: The Impact of Starlink Satellite Emissions on UFO Sightings
The All-Domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO) has published a new report titled "Correlations of Starlink Satellite Flaring with UAP Observations." The report examines how satellite flares could potentially be mistaken for unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAP).
The report highlights the increased number of satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) due to the rapid expansion of satellite mega-constellations, particularly SpaceX's Starlink project. With over 6,700 Starlink satellites in orbit as of late 2024, the occurrence of satellite flaring has significantly increased.
One of the key findings of the AARO report is the potential confusion between satellite flares and UAP. Sunlight reflecting off a satellite's surface can produce visible bright flashes in the sky, known as satellite flaring. This can be especially true for Starlink satellites, which have both diffuse and specular reflecting surfaces, making them especially visible under certain lighting conditions.
The report also discusses the advantage that observers at altitude have in distinguishing between suspected UAP and satellite activity. An observer at altitude has a broader line of sight compared to someone on the ground, allowing them to determine whether a suspected UAP might be linked to satellite activity.
The report includes a case study of a UAP sighting by an airline pilot near Gallup, New Mexico, in October 2022. The described motion of the lights matched known flare behavior, leading the AARO to conclude that the sighting was likely due to satellite flaring.
Observers can use online tools such as SunCalc and Time and Date to determine when the Sun's altitude places satellites in a potential flare window. The Sun's position at the time of the sighting was below the horizon at an angle where satellite flares are commonly observed.
The AARO report also provides calculations showing how an observer's horizon shifts based on altitude, which can further aid in distinguishing between satellite flares and UAP. Airborne observers may witness extended flaring events due to their longer duration within the flare light cone.
The increasing number of satellites in LEO has led to a rise in satellite flaring events, which can sometimes be mistaken for unidentified aerial phenomena. The report serves as a valuable resource for those seeking to understand the relationship between satellite activity and UAP sightings.
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