Radio astronomers have secured a formal role in shaping global standards to mitigate satellite interference with their observations. The Committee on Radio Astronomy Frequencies (CRAF) has been admitted as an I-member of the International Special Committee on Radio Interference (CISPR), which defines international rules on electromagnetic compatibility.

The initiative was led by ASTRON researcher Dr Emma van der Wateren, who has long contributed to international discussions on unintended electromagnetic radiation (UEMR) from satellites. This new membership allows astronomers to introduce their expertise directly into the standardisation process, ensuring satellite services and radio astronomy can better coexist.

The issue has grown urgent as satellite numbers rise dramatically. While the

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