The night sky remains a quiet backdrop for stargazers in the present. Within a short time, however, proliferating satellites and debris will dominate the view overhead. The piece highlights how rapid expansion of orbital technology alters even simple moments of connection with the natural world.
The cartoon by Peter Kuper, published July 22, 2024, shows three Supreme Court justices seated at a bench holding gavels. The leftmost justice has eyes closed as a hand extends from a device labeled 45 and points directly at him. The other two justices also appear with eyes closed. The image responds to the Supreme Court's July 1, 2024, presidential immunity ruling and ongoing debates over Trump-appointed justices, recusals, and potential constitutional issues.
