SpaceX announced a large-scale SpaceX Starlink orbit reduction planned for 2026. Around 4,400 Starlink satellites will move to lower altitudes for safety reasons.
All affected Starlink satellites currently orbit about 342 miles above Earth. They will descend to roughly 298 miles during the migration phase.
The plan was confirmed by Michael Nicolls, Vice President of Starlink Engineering at SpaceX. He shared the details through a public statement.
One key reason relates to changes in solar activity. As the solar minimum approaches, atmospheric density decreases significantly.
Lower density increases the time satellites remain in orbit after failure. Reducing altitude cuts ballistic decay time by more than 80 percent.
Nicolls explained that failed satellites would deorbit within months instead of years. This change lowers long-term risks in low Earth orbit.
Another reason for the SpaceX Starlink orbit reduction concerns collision probability. The region below 500 kilometers contains fewer satellites and debris objects.
Solar activity follows an 11-year cycle. Scientists expect the next solar minimum around 2030.
High solar activity thickens Earth’s atmosphere. This increases drag and speeds up satellite descent.
Low solar activity creates the opposite effect. Satellites remain in orbit longer without active control.
The 2026 migration affects nearly half of SpaceX’s Starlink constellation. The network currently includes about 9,400 operational satellites.
Starlink maintains high reliability levels. Only two nonfunctional satellites remain in orbit at this time.
Nicolls emphasized rapid deorbiting in case of failure. Faster removal improves overall constellation safety.
He also cited uncoordinated maneuvers by other operators as a growing concern. Lower orbits reduce exposure to these risks.
Low Earth orbit continues to grow more crowded. Starlink alone represents nearly two-thirds of active satellites.
Other countries are expanding as well. China is developing two large LEO constellations exceeding 10,000 satellites each.
SpaceX Starlink orbit reduction reflects a proactive safety strategy. The move aims to reduce debris risks amid rapid orbital expansion.
