SpaceX lowering orbits of 4,400 Starlink satellites for safety's sake
Space••business
Key Points:
- In 2026, about 4,400 SpaceX Starlink satellites currently orbiting at 342 miles (550 km) will descend to approximately 298 miles (480 km) altitude to improve operational safety and efficiency.
- The move aims to reduce ballistic decay time by over 80% during the upcoming solar minimum, shortening satellite deorbit times from over four years to just a few months.
- Lowering orbit altitude also decreases collision risks, as fewer debris objects and satellite constellations exist below 500 km.
- Solar activity, which follows an 11-year cycle, influences atmospheric density and satellite drag; the next solar minimum is expected around 2030.
- SpaceX emphasizes that this migration will enhance constellation
