The scientists who precisely measure the position of Earth are in a bit of trouble. Their measurements are essential for the satellites we use for navigation, communication and Earth observation every day.
But you might be surprised to learn that making these measurements—using the science of geodesy—depends on tracking the locations of black holes in distant galaxies.
The problem is, the scientists need to use specific frequency lanes on the radio spectrum highway to track those black holes.
And with the rise of Wi-Fi, mobile phones and satellite internet, travel on that highway is starting to look like a traffic jam.
agamemnonymous @sh.itjust.works - 5mon
I get the actual issue, but that title sounds hilariously boomer.
24
Pennomi - 5mon
I still think they should build out a lunar crater radio telescope out there on the dark side of the moon. The radio silence and scale would be impossible to get any other way.
10
quediuspayu @lemmy.dbzer0.com - 5mon
That's the far side.
8
Pennomi - 5mon
Yes the far side of the moon is colloquially (and incorrectly) called the dark side of the moon. Thanks for the correction.
3
al_Kaholic @lemmynsfw.com - 5mon
It's starstink muskings up the sky.
5
Lime Buzz (fae/she) - 5mon
Yeah, we beings on this planet need fewer satellites really.
throws_lemy in astronomy
Scientists look to black holes to know exactly where we are in the Universe. But phones and Wi-Fi are blocking the view
https://phys.org/news/2025-06-scientists-black-holes-universe-wi.htmlI get the actual issue, but that title sounds hilariously boomer.
I still think they should build out a lunar crater radio telescope out there on the dark side of the moon. The radio silence and scale would be impossible to get any other way.
That's the far side.
Yes the far side of the moon is colloquially (and incorrectly) called the dark side of the moon. Thanks for the correction.
It's starstink muskings up the sky.
Yeah, we beings on this planet need fewer satellites really.
As for the rest, that's not easily solved.