An Evaluation of Selected Satellite Communication Systems as Sources of Environmental Microwave Radiation
Norbert N. Hankin · 1974
Government recognized satellite microwave radiation as environmental concern in 1974, decades before today's satellite mega-constellations.
Plain English Summary
This 1974 government report evaluated satellite communication systems as sources of environmental microwave radiation exposure. The study examined how satellite communications technology contributes to microwave radiation in our environment. This early research helped establish baseline understanding of satellite-based EMF exposure during the dawn of modern satellite communications.
Why This Matters
This 1974 government evaluation represents some of the earliest official recognition that satellite communications create environmental microwave radiation exposure. What makes this particularly significant is the timing - this assessment occurred just as satellite communication systems were expanding globally, showing government awareness of potential EMF concerns from the technology's infancy. The reality is that satellite-based microwave exposure has only intensified since 1974, with thousands of communication satellites now orbiting Earth and new mega-constellations like Starlink adding tens of thousands more. While individual satellite signals may seem distant and weak, they represent a constant, inescapable source of microwave radiation that blankets the entire planet. This early government evaluation demonstrates that concerns about satellite EMF exposure aren't new - they've existed since the technology's early deployment, yet regulatory oversight has failed to keep pace with the exponential growth in satellite-based communications.
Exposure Information
Specific exposure levels were not quantified in this study.
Show BibTeX
@article{an_evaluation_of_selected_satellite_communication_systems_as_sources_of_environm_g7010,
author = {Norbert N. Hankin},
title = {An Evaluation of Selected Satellite Communication Systems as Sources of Environmental Microwave Radiation},
year = {1974},
}