Astronomy and commercial space are often portrayed as being on a collision course, yet their futures are deeply intertwined. As satellite constellations expand, astronomers raise concerns about trails across images, interference with radio telescopes and the loss of dark skies. At the same time, commercial operators point to the enormous economic, scientific and national security benefits enabled by space-based infrastructure. Both activities represent valuable and worthwhile human endeavors, each contributing in different ways to scientific progress, economic development and societal benefit.

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