Brightness of the Qianfan Satellites
Anthony Mallama, Richard E. Cole, Bram Dorreman, Scott Harrington and, Nick James

TL;DR
This paper models the brightness variations of Qianfan satellites based on their orientation and surface properties, highlighting potential impacts on astronomical observations.
Contribution
It introduces a model for satellite brightness using Lambertian reflectance of specific surfaces, aiding in understanding and mitigating their impact on astronomy.
Findings
Brightness varies from magnitude 4 to 8 depending on position.
Model accurately predicts observed brightness based on satellite orientation.
Surface reflectance properties are key to brightness levels.
Abstract
Observed magnitudes of Qianfan spacecraft range from 4 when they are near zenith to 8 when low in the sky. Nearly all of the observations can be modeled with a nadir-facing flat antenna panel and the underside of a zenith-facing solar array, both with Lambertian reflectance properties. These satellites will impact astronomical research unless their brightness is reduced.
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Taxonomy
TopicsStellar, planetary, and galactic studies · Astronomical Observations and Instrumentation · Astronomy and Astrophysical Research
