SpaceX’s Starlink network will begin a major orbital adjustment in 2026, lowering about 4,400 satellites from their current altitude of around 550 kilometres to roughly 480 kilometres above Earth, in a move aimed at improving safety in low-Earth orbit.
The Vice President of Starlink Engineering, Michael Nicholls, disclosed the plan in a post on X, explaining that the change is part of a broader effort to reduce space congestion and minimise the risk of satellite collisions as solar activity approaches a minimum.
Starlink, which operates the world’s largest satellite constellation, said the reconfiguration would compress its orbital “shells” and significantly shorten the time it takes defunct satellites to re-enter the atmosphere.
Nicholls noted that operating below 500 kilometres could cut ballistic decay time by more than 80 per cent during periods of low solar activity. Under current conditions, failed satellites can take up to four years or more to deorbit, but at the lower altitude they could burn up in the atmosphere within a few months.
He added that there are fewer debris objects and fewer planned satellite constellations operating below 500 kilometres, which further reduces the likelihood of collisions.
Starlink currently has more than 9,000 satellites in orbit, with only two reported as non-functional, a record the company says demonstrates the high reliability of its systems. Nevertheless, SpaceX wants any failed units to deorbit as quickly as possible to limit long-term risks.
The company said the altitude reduction programme will be rolled out throughout 2026 and is being coordinated closely with other satellite operators, international regulators and the United States Space Command.
In Africa, Starlink continues to expand its footprint, with Nigeria now ranking as its second-largest market with over 66,000 subscribers as of the second quarter of 2025, according to the Nigerian Communications Commission. The company is also strengthening its continental presence through partnerships such as a recent deal with Airtel Africa to deploy direct-to-cell services in several countries, including Nigeria.
Global concern has grown over the sustainability of low-Earth orbit as the number of satellite constellations increases. By lowering its satellites and tightening coordination with industry and regulators, SpaceX says it is taking proactive steps to reduce debris, improve orbital safety and promote the long-term viability of space operations.
