SpaceX will lower Starlink satellites to reduce collision risks

Of the more than 9,000 Starlink satellites currently operating in low Earth orbit, SpaceX says it will lower about 4,400 from 550 kilometers above the Earth’s surface to about 480 kilometers in the coming months. This ensures that satellites are de-orbited faster when something goes wrong or when they reach the end of their lives, and also reduces the probability of collision since “the number of debris objects and satellite constellations planned is well below 500 km.” Written by Michael NicholsVice President of Starlink Engineering.

By the end of this decade, there could be as many as 70,000 satellites operating in low Earth orbit — a region of space located 160 kilometers to 2,000 kilometers (100 to 1,200 miles) above Earth — if special government-led efforts are made. achieve their goals.

SpaceX had another option Record year In 2025. It has carried out more than 160 Falcon 9 missions, more than 120 of which are dedicated to expanding the Starlink constellation. Starlink now serves 9.25 million active customers in more than 155 countries, markets and regions.