Starlink, the satellite broadband arm of SpaceX, founded by Elon Musk, plans to reposition approximately 4,400 satellites to lower Earth orbits in 2026 as part of a broad effort to enhance space safety.
The satellites will be moved from an altitude of roughly 550 kilometres to about 480 kilometres, according to a disclosure by Michael Nicholls, Vice President of Starlink Engineering at SpaceX, shared via a post on X.
Why Starlink Is Reconfiguring Its Orbital Shells
Nicholls explained that SpaceX intends to gradually lower all Starlink satellites currently operating near 550 km to 480 km throughout 2026. The goal is to tighten Starlink’s orbital shells, reduce long-term orbital congestion, and lower the risk of satellite collisions, particularly as the solar cycle approaches solar minimum.
During solar minimum, reduced atmospheric density decreases orbital drag, allowing satellites to remain in orbit far longer if they become inoperable. Lowering satellites to sub-500 km altitudes increases atmospheric resistance, helping ensure quicker re-entry in failure scenarios.
Nicholls added that the reconfiguration is being closely coordinated with satellite operators, regulatory authorities, and the United States Space Command (USSPACECOM).
Improved Deorbit Times and Collision Risk Reduction
Operating below 500 kilometres offers meaningful safety advantages, according to Nicholls. He noted that lowering satellites to these altitudes could result in an over 80% reduction in ballistic decay time during solar minimum conditions.
As a result, satellites that might otherwise take four years or longer to naturally deorbit could instead re-enter Earth’s atmosphere within months, substantially reducing the accumulation of long-lived orbital debris.
Lower orbital regions also contain fewer debris fragments and fewer planned satellite constellations, further decreasing the likelihood of in-orbit collisions.
Responding to Rising Space Debris Concerns
Although Starlink satellites are considered highly reliable, with just two non-functional units among more than 9,000 active satellites, SpaceX is prioritising rapid deorbiting for any spacecraft that experiences failures.
The rapid expansion of satellite mega-constellations has heightened global concerns about space debris, collision hazards, and the long-term sustainability of low Earth orbit. By proactively adjusting its constellation and coordinating across the industry, SpaceX is positioning Starlink as a more responsible and safety-focused operator.
Industry analysts suggest the move could help shape future regulatory standards and best practices for large satellite constellations worldwide.
Starlink’s Expanding Role in Africa and Nigeria
Starlink currently operates the largest satellite constellation globally, delivering broadband internet services across multiple regions, including Africa.
In Nigeria, Starlink has seen rapid adoption and is now the second-largest internet service provider, with 66,523 subscribers as of Q2 2025, according to figures released by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
Across Africa, Starlink’s footprint is expected to grow further through its direct-to-cell technology, which enables mobile connectivity in areas lacking traditional terrestrial infrastructure.
Airtel Africa–SpaceX Deal Strengthens Direct-to-Cell Expansion
Supporting this expansion, Airtel Africa has entered into a landmark partnership with SpaceX to roll out Starlink direct-to-cell services across several African countries, including Nigeria.
The collaboration is expected to improve mobile coverage in remote and underserved regions by integrating satellite connectivity directly into existing mobile networks.
