Starlink and Mega Constellations: Finding a Viable Legal Solution
By Charles Lee Mudd, Jr.
Intellectual Property,
February 2020
The first launch of SpaceX Starlink satellites in 2019 prompted significant outcry about the effects the Starlink mega constellation system could have on our night sky. The images of Starlink satellites streaking across the dark night certainly suggested the degradation of unfettered star gazing. Indeed, the astronomical community quickly voiced concerns that the Starlink mega constellation would degrade both optical and radio astronomy. Since then, critics of Starlink point to the Federal Communications Commission’s “failure” to conduct or require an environmental assessment that included astronomical concerns. In fact, some critics advocate litigation against the FCC or SpaceX. While there exist well-founded concerns about Starlink, litigation would be misguided, ineffectual, and possibly counter-productive at this time. Consequently, immediate focus should rather be directed toward advocacy, education, and policy change.
Top 10 tips on data security: Take two
By Charles Lee Mudd, Jr.
Intellectual Property,
January 2017
Cybersecurity requires more than just ten tips. Start with Secure the Front Door, Restrict Public Wi-Fi Use, Firewall, Establish and Enforce Password Protocols, Use Encryption and Identification Measures, Require Employment Agreements and NDAs, Implement Appropriate Security Technology, Strategically Use Cloud Computing Services, Employ Anti-Virus and Intrusion Prevention Software, and Recognize the Limits of Any Top Ten List.
Rembrandt, AI, and 3-D printing: Has forgery been perfected?
By Charles Lee Mudd, Jr.
Intellectual Property,
September 2016
Current computer developments foster re-evaluation of intellectual property laws, especially copyright. To promote Dutch arts and culture, ING Bank hired JWT Amsterdam advertising agency to develop a computer program to paint like Rembrandt, one of the best-known Dutch artists. The website www.nextrembrandt.com describes the process and shows the result. How does that technology change the legal landscape?
A wary world in Web 2.0
By Charles Lee Mudd, Jr.
Women and the Law,
December 2008
The emergence of new technologies always seems to be accompanied by casualties or victims of the darker, more nefarious uses of such technologies.
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