SpaceX to lower thousands of Starlink satellites in 2026 as collisions rise
3 hours ago
- #Space Safety
- #Collision Avoidance
- #Satellite Management
- Starlink plans to lower about 4,400 satellites from 550 km to 480 km altitude in 2026 to enhance space safety.
- This reduction in altitude will cut satellite decay time by over 80% and decrease collision risks with fewer satellites below 500 km.
- The decision follows a December incident where a Starlink satellite created debris and disrupted communications with another spacecraft.
- There are over 40,000 objects in Low Earth Orbit, with SpaceX owning more than 9,300 active satellites as of December.
- SpaceX's collision avoidance maneuvers increased by 200% from late 2024 to mid-2025, attributed to a growing satellite fleet.