"[T]he design changes and brightness-mitigation operations that #SpaceX introduced for Generation 2 satellites effectively reduces their luminosity. Minis are actually fainter than all three models of the smaller Gen 1 spacecraft. However, the full-size Gen 2 satellites may present a greater challenge."

https://skyandtelescope.org/astronomy-news/the-newest-and-largest-starlink-satellites-are-also-the-faintest/

#Satellites #Starlink

The Newest and Largest Starlink Satellites Are Also the Faintest

Despite being larger than the original Starlink satellites, the new "Mini" version is fainter, meeting astronomers' recommendations.

Sky & Telescope
@JohnBarentine Why exactly do they need to have the reflective materials on their satellites?