Astha is a PhD researcher in astrophysics at the University of Surrey. She leads a collaborative project with Surrey NanoSystems to address satellite-induced light pollution, which is an emerging threat to astronomy. Her research explores the use of an ultra-black coating to reduce the optical brightness of low-Earth-orbit satellites. The results of her work suggests that the coating can bring satellite brightness close to the International Astronomical Union’s threshold for light pollution, offering a promising mitigation pathway.

This work is set to be published in a peer-reviewed journal and has already been presented at the Royal Astronomical Society (RAS) and NAM 2025. It has also attracted interest from the broader public, United Nations and media, helping to raise awareness of the scientific and policy challenges associated with space sustainability. The coating will undergo in-orbit testing aboard the Jovian-1 mission in 2026, further advancing the link between academic research, industry innovation, and environmental sustainability in space.

There will also be a presentation on the sky at night for the coming month.

If you would like further details then please contact Anita King.