Under the vast star-laden Karoo sky, on the site of what will be the world’s most powerful radio telescope, a smartphone is not permitted — even if it’s switched off.

And now the team behind the Square Kilometre Array (SKA), set for completion in mid-2028, has raised the alarm over the effect of satellite internet services on its work. Low-orbit roving satellites with sound emissions are likely to disrupt the sensitive work of mapping the universe through radio signals. ..

Subscribe now to unlock this article.

Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).

There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.

Cancel anytime.

Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.