Look out, space billboards could be coming to a sky near you

It’s an idea that will send a shiver down the spines not only of astronomers who need clear skies to do their work, but also of regular folks who sometimes like to gaze dreamily toward the heavens to immerse themselves in the beauty of the universe. We’re talking about space ads. Space ads created by constellations of small satellites.

Satellites reflecting sunlight to form the shape of the Olympic rings.Skoltech

Having already agreed that the technology now exists for such a venture, researchers at Moscow’s Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech) and the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology recently conducted a study to determine the economic feasibility of a space ad mission involving a constellation of sun-reflecting satellites that can take up different positions to create images or words in the skies above cities.

To work out if the idea is a realistic possibility or a desperate waste of money, the researchers took into account satellite fuel consumption, target city population, and local ad costs, among other factors, and came up with a cost of £65 million for an entire mission lasting several months. Additional research found that daily ad revenue from space ads could reach around £2 million, suggesting the operator could recover its costs within the space of a month if they display the ads on a daily basis, whether over the same city or by moving between different ones. “We’ve been studying some of the more technical aspects of space advertising for a while now,” the study’s first author Shamil Biktimirov, a research intern at Skoltech’s Engineering Center, said in a release. “This time we looked at the economic side of things and, as unrealistic as it may seem, we show that space advertising based on 50 or more small satellites flying in formation could be economically viable.”

The idea for satellite-powered space billboards has been around for a number of years but, in the light of this latest research, they now seem a step closer. This is certain to alarm astronomers, many of whom have long been complaining about how reflections from SpaceX’s growing constellation of Starlink internet satellites can obscure their view of the night sky. The researchers address this issue in their paper, claiming the concerns are unwarranted as the satellites would only reflect light for their messages around sunrise or sunset — and not at night when stars appear to blaze brightest.

The idea is also certain to disappoint anyone who rather enjoys gazing skywards to marvel at star-filled skies, a hobby that would almost certainly lose the fun factor if every time you spot a star constellation, a McDonald’s ad for a Happy Meal suddenly drifts into view.

Editors’ Recommendations

Tags:

blue-nile-1 listed on couponmatrix.ukexmoor-zoo listed on couponmatrix.ukjojo-maman-bebe listed on couponmatrix.ukmaha-home listed on couponmatrix.ukselfridges-and-co listed on couponmatrix.uksnozone listed on couponmatrix.uk
blue-nile-1 listed on couponmatrix.ukBlue Nile was founded in 1999 with the idea that the diamond and engagement ring business was more than ready for some innovation. Revolutionizing the industry with their radical online business model, Blue Nile made it possible for customers like you to shop for extraordinary, high-quality diamonds at a great value price. So, if you're looking for a little sparkle in your life, why not use your Blue Nile promo code to make it happen.
exmoor-zoo listed on couponmatrix.ukTo get a glimpse of the varied wildlife outside of our temperate climate, take a trip to Exmoor Zoo! Be it tropical birds, exotic amphibians or wallabies from down under, you can see animals of every variety whilst using an Exmoor Zoo discount code to visit for a fraction of the price. With legends of the Exmoor Beast still strong in the area, you could even visit the resident black leopard and see if the feisty feline lives up to the moniker.
jojo-maman-bebe listed on couponmatrix.ukFrom pregnancy to pre-school, Jojo Maman Bebe has all your clothing and accessories under wraps. With wonderful colours, playful designs and comfortable fits for both mother and baby, you can uncover a new world of maternity, baby and toddler clothing for less with a Jojo Maman Bebe discount code. In addition to fashions for you and your little one, you can also pick up nursery furniture, toys and accessories such to ensure all your new-parent needs are covered.
maha-home listed on couponmatrix.ukUpgrade your home setup with Maha Home and its outstanding selection of kitchenware, home goods and electricals. Based in London but available nationwide, expect the finest craftsmanship available at the lowest possible price – especially when you shop with the latest Maha Home discount code. With everything from travel bags to decorating tools and garden equipment under their banner, Maha Home has all the essentials you need to turn your empty house into your dream home.
selfridges-and-co listed on couponmatrix.ukA truly exceptional place for shopping, Selfridges has long been established as a leading UK department store. With quality fashion at the forefront, the range of products goes much further than dressing you. A Selfridges discount code can save you on everything from the latest homewares and technology to fine food and alcohol. It’s all about the lusher side of life when it comes to Selfridges, as you’ll soon see when shopping their range.
snozone listed on couponmatrix.ukYou don’t have to trek to the Alps to experience the icy thrill of downhill skiing and snowboarding. Snozone offer some of the most exhilarating experiences imaginable and, with a Snozone discount code you’ll be even better equipped to gather your friends, family or work colleagues, strap on your snow boots and jump into the unknown. And, with locations in both Milton Keynes and Castleford near Leeds, there’s a reasonable chance you’ll be within travelling distance of one or the other.