Since 2019, the SpaceX company has placed about 6,000 Starlink satellites in low orbit, i.e. below 600 km. They create a satellite network in which individual satellites send each other appropriate data. They thus enable access to the Internet on Earth. Data is transferred using light, just like optical fiber, but via .
SpaceX deorbits satellites
Such devices cannot remain in the atmosphere indefinitely. After about five years (depending on height and structure), they deorbit. To avoid an uncontrolled fall, SpaceX deorbits them in a carefully planned manner. So far, 406 satellites have been “disabled” in this way. Soon it will want to bring about 100 more to Earth in a controlled manner. The trial is scheduled to take place in the coming months. For most satellites scheduled to be decommissioned, this will take approximately six months.
In this topic, it was indicated that Elon Musk’s company decided to do this because technical defects were noticed in the devices, which may increase the chances of failure in the future. It’s about losing control over them. SpaceX deorbits those satellites that are most at risk of losing control. The company admitted that of the 406 satellites deorbited so far, 17 lost control and were considered “unmaneuverable.” However, it was assured that they gradually disintegrate and are tracked to avoid collisions with other satellites.
SpaceX wants to take care of space and moralizes others
“While this proactive approach comes at the cost of losing satellites that are effectively serving users, we believe it is the right approach to ensure the safety and sustainability of space – SpaceX encourages all satellite owners and operators to safely remove satellites from orbit, before they become impossible to maneuver,” says Elon Musk’s company.
“SpaceX is committed to maintaining a safe, sustainable and accessible space, protecting both the satellites in orbit and society on the ground,” we read in the announcement about the satellites. They are to be closely monitored during deorbitation, and the risk associated with this process is to be “minimal.” Satellites are supposed to burn up as they enter orbit.
Source: Gazeta
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