SpaceX plans to lower the orbit of approximately 4,400 of its Starlink satellites from 550km to 480km above Earth to enhance safety and reduce collision risks. This decision follows incidents involving a Starlink satellite explosion and a near-collision with a Chinese satellite. Lowering the orbit allows satellites to deorbit more quickly if they malfunction or reach the end of their lifespan and reduces the chances of collision due to fewer debris objects below 500km. With the potential for up to 70,000 satellites in low Earth orbit by the end of the decade, SpaceX's move is a proactive step towards managing space traffic and ensuring the sustainability of satellite operations. This matters because it addresses the growing concern of space debris and the safety of satellite operations in an increasingly crowded orbital environment.
