SpaceX’s Starlink Plans to Lower Satellite Altitude to Enhance Space Safety
In a significant move to improve space safety, Starlink, a satellite constellation owned by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, intends to lower approximately 4,400 of its satellites from an altitude of around 550 kilometers to 480 kilometers in 2026. This announcement was made by Michael Nicholls, Vice President of Starlink Engineering at SpaceX, in a recent post. The adjustment aims to condense Starlink’s orbital shells, reduce collision risks, and shorten deorbit times as solar minimum conditions approach.
Starlink currently operates as the world’s largest satellite constellation, providing broadband internet services across multiple regions, including parts of Africa. In Nigeria, the company has established itself as the second-largest internet service provider, with over 66,500 customers as of the second quarter of 2025. The planned altitude reduction is expected to minimize long-term risks, particularly during solar minimum periods when atmospheric drag is reduced, and satellites tend to remain in orbit longer.
By operating at lower altitudes, Starlink expects to achieve more than an 80% reduction in ballistic decay time during solar minimum. This means that satellites that might otherwise take several years to deorbit could re-enter the atmosphere within a few months. Furthermore, there are fewer debris objects and planned satellite constellations below 500 kilometers, which reduces the overall probability of orbital collisions.
The decision to lower the satellites’ altitude is part of a broader effort to promote space safety and sustainability. The rapid growth of satellite constellations has raised concerns about space debris, collision risks, and the long-term sustainability of low Earth orbit. By proactively addressing these concerns, SpaceX is positioning Starlink as a safety-conscious player in an increasingly crowded orbital environment.
The shell lowering process will be tightly coordinated with other satellite operators, regulators, and the United States Space Command (USSPACECOM). This collaborative approach highlights the company’s commitment to responsible space operations. With its direct-to-cell service gaining traction in Africa, Starlink is poised to play a significant role in bridging connectivity gaps across the continent. The company’s recent agreement with Airtel Africa to deploy direct-to-cell services across multiple African countries, including Nigeria, underscores its growing presence in the region. As the space industry continues to evolve, Starlink’s proactive approach to space safety is likely to have a positive impact on the long-term sustainability of low Earth orbit.