Astronomy and satellite constellations

The Director shall support research into and the design, development, and testing of mitigation measures to address the potential impact of satellite constellations on Foundation scientific programs by— (1) making awards on a competitive basis to support study of the potential impacts of satellite constellations on ground-based optical, infrared, and radio astronomy, including through existing programs such Spectrum and Wireless Innovation enabled by Future Technologies (SWIFT) and the Spectrum Innovation Initiative; (2) supporting research on potential satellite impacts and benefits and mitigation strategies to be carried out at one or more Foundation supported Federally Funded Research and Development Centers or major multiuser research facilities as defined in section 1862s–2(g) of this title, as appropriate; and (3) supporting workshops related to the potential impact of satellite constellations on scientific research and how those constellations could be used to improve scientific research. (Pub. L. 117–167, div. B, title III, § 10362, Aug. 9, 2022, 136 Stat. 1568.)