SpaceX has revealed plans to reposition a large share of its Starlink satellites into lower Earth orbits by 2026, marking a significant shift in how the company operates its satellite internet network. The move is intended to enhance service quality while addressing rising concerns around orbital congestion and space debris.
According to the company, upcoming Starlink satellites will
operate at altitudes of roughly 480 kilometres, down from the current standard
orbit of about 550 kilometres. Operating closer to Earth will help reduce
signal travel time, resulting in lower latency and faster internet connections
for users worldwide.
Another key benefit of the lower orbit is improved space safety. Satellites at these altitudes experience stronger atmospheric drag, which ensures that retired or malfunctioning spacecraft naturally re-enter Earth’s atmosphere and burn up within weeks rather than lingering in orbit for years. This significantly reduces the long-term accumulation of debris in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
The announcement follows a rare technical incident disclosed
by Starlink in December, involving a satellite operating at around 418
kilometres. The spacecraft suffered a complete communications failure and
generated a small amount of debris—an uncommon event for the Starlink network.
SpaceX’s decision comes at a time of heightened scrutiny
from scientists and global space agencies, who have raised alarms about the
rapidly growing number of satellites crowding LEO. By transitioning to a lower
orbital shell, the company says it aims to lower the chances of
collision-driven chain reactions, often referred to as the Kessler Syndrome,
where debris from one impact triggers further collisions.
SpaceX has positioned the move as part of its broader commitment to sustainable space operations, noting that Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) is naturally “self-cleaning” due to atmospheric forces that prevent long-term debris buildup.
BY: Nirosha Gupta
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