SpaceX, the rocket manufacturing company founded by Elon Musk, has announced its decision to initiate a controlled descent of approximately 100 Starlink satellites. This move comes as a precautionary measure due to an issue that could potentially lead to future failures.
While the current batch of satellites is operational, SpaceX has discovered an issue that raises concerns about their future reliability. To address this, the company intends to execute a gradual, controlled descent of these satellites over the next few weeks and months. The deorbiting process is expected to take about six months for most of the affected satellites.
SpaceX has already conducted controlled deorbits for 406 satellites out of the nearly 6,000 Starlink satellites launched into low-Earth orbit. Currently, 17 satellites are non-maneuverable, while 95% of the satellites have completed the deorbiting process. The 17 passively decaying satellites are being closely monitored to minimize potential collisions with other satellites.
Despite the reduction in the number of satellites in orbit, SpaceX reassures that the operational efficiency of Starlink’s services will remain unaffected. The company highlights its manufacturing capacity of 55 Starlink satellites per week and the capability to launch over 200 satellites per month to offset any potential disruption.
In January alone, SpaceX executed seven Starlink missions, deploying more than 150 Starlink satellites into space. The company believes that the proactive approach of controlled descent is the right thing to do to keep space safe and sustainable. SpaceX encourages all satellite owners and operators to safely de-orbit satellites before they become non-maneuverable in the interest of space safety and sustainability.
SpaceX’s Starlink satellite constellation aims to provide global broadband coverage, especially in underserved areas. With thousands of satellites planned to be deployed in the coming years, ensuring their reliability and safety is crucial. While the controlled descent of some satellites may result in the loss of operational assets, SpaceX is committed to maintaining the long-term sustainability of space activities.
Overall, this decision by SpaceX highlights the company’s dedication to space safety and sustainability. By proactively addressing potential issues and taking steps to minimize risks, SpaceX aims to ensure the continued success of its Starlink satellite constellation and the services it provides.
