Satellites: Now there's a traffic jam in space too! Satellites are becoming a headache, and Elon Musk is creating an alternative solution to avoid it..
SpaceX's Starlink internet service is now preparing to change its position in space. During 2026, the company will lower the altitude of thousands of its satellites that are currently orbiting approximately 550 kilometers (342 miles) above the Earth. They will be brought down to a safer altitude of approximately 480 kilometers (298 miles). SpaceX's Vice President of Engineering, Michael Nicolls, stated that this entire process will be completed within this year, 2026.
What is the whole issue?
Space is no longer as empty as it once was. Companies and governments worldwide are continuously launching satellites for internet, communication, and surveillance purposes. This has led to significant congestion in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). Recently, in December 2025, a Starlink satellite experienced a technical malfunction that resulted in an explosion, scattering debris in space. This incident has further increased concerns about space safety. To date, Starlink alone has deployed nearly 10,000 satellites.
Major benefits of lowering the altitude
The company says that placing the satellites at a lower altitude will reduce the risk of collisions, as the number of debris and satellites below 500 kilometers is comparatively lower. Additionally, when the satellites reach the end of their service life, they will burn up more quickly due to atmospheric friction and will not remain in orbit as inactive debris for years.
Space debris is increasing in Low Earth Orbit.
In December, Starlink also revealed that one of its satellites malfunctioned while in orbit, generating a small amount of debris and losing contact. This incident occurred at an altitude of approximately 260 miles and was described as a rare technical accident. In recent years, there has been a sharp increase in the number of spacecraft orbiting in low Earth orbit. Thanks to satellite internet services, low Earth orbit has become a hub of commercial activity.
SpaceX becomes the king of satellites.
SpaceX, once just a rocket launch company, has now become the world's largest satellite operator. The company aims to provide high-speed internet to the entire world, but protecting space is equally important. Regulators and scientists have warned that if this congestion continues, future operations in space will become extremely difficult. Starlink's new initiative is considered a major step towards keeping space clean and safe.
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