SpaceX announced that Starlink will lower its satellites from 550 km to 480 km over the course of 2026. Michael Nicolls, Starlink’s VP of engineering, said the move aims to improve space safety.
The reconfiguration comes after a recent incident in December, when one Starlink satellite at 418 km experienced an anomaly.
The malfunction created a small amount of debris and cut off communications with the spacecraft. The satellite quickly dropped four kilometers, suggesting an on-board explosion caused the event.
Nicolls explained that lowering the satellites’ orbit will condense Starlink’s constellation. “This reduces the number of debris objects and planned satellite constellations, lowering the aggregate collision risk,” he said. By moving satellites to a lower satellite orbit, Starlink hopes to reduce potential hazards in space.
The number of satellites in Earth’s orbit has surged in recent years. Companies and countries are deploying tens of thousands of satellites for internet, communication, and Earth observation services. This rapid growth has raised concerns about collisions and space debris.
Starlink, with nearly 10,000 satellites, is the world’s largest satellite internet network. It provides broadband services to consumers, governments, and enterprise customers worldwide. Lowering satellite orbits will not only improve safety but also enhance network efficiency and coverage.
Experts note that satellites below 500 km encounter fewer debris objects, making lower satellite orbit a safer choice for large constellations. SpaceX’s initiative may set a precedent for other satellite operators looking to balance service performance with orbital safety.
The company will continue to monitor its network during the reconfiguration to ensure uninterrupted internet service.
Starlink’s plan reflects growing efforts to manage space traffic responsibly as orbital congestion increases.
By 2026, the shift to a lower satellite orbit will make Starlink safer, more efficient, and better prepared for future space operations.
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