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SpaceX to Lower Starlink Orbits for Safety
3 Jan
Summary
- SpaceX will lower orbits of 4,400 Starlink satellites by 2026.
- Lower altitudes reduce deorbit time for non-operational satellites.
- Recent incidents highlight space safety concerns and debris risks.
SpaceX is undertaking a major reconfiguration of its Starlink satellite constellation, planning to lower the orbits of about 4,400 satellites from 550 kilometers to 480 kilometers by 2026. This initiative aims to significantly bolster space safety by reducing the time it takes for inactive satellites to deorbit through atmospheric drag.
The condensed orbits will lead to shorter decay times for satellites unable to actively deorbit, especially during periods of lower solar activity. Furthermore, the lower altitude region is less congested with debris and other constellations, thereby decreasing the aggregate likelihood of collisions and enhancing orbital safety.
This strategic move follows recent incidents, including a near-miss with a Chinese satellite and a malfunction of a Starlink satellite that released debris. These events have intensified discussions at international forums, such as the United Nations Security Council, regarding the proliferation of large satellite constellations and their potential risks.
