SpaceX deorbited 260 Starlink satellites between December 2025 and May 2026 as part of a routine fleet management process. According to filings submitted to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), this total included 176 first-generation units and 84 second-generation satellites. The company manages these descents over ocean regions to minimize risks to populated areas and aviation corridors.
Managing a Growing Megaconstellation
With more than 10 tys. Starlink satellites launched to date, SpaceX maintains an active fleet of approximately 9,5 tys. units. The removal of 260 satellites over a six-month period represents a standard operational cycle for the company. These maneuvers are necessary to replace aging hardware and maintain the efficiency of the orbital network.
This deorbiting volume is consistent with previous maintenance efforts. For instance, between December 2024 and May 2025, SpaceX removed nearly 500 satellites from orbit. This earlier, higher figure followed the identification of a technical defect in the first-generation Starlink units that increased the likelihood of hardware failure.
Did you know?
SpaceX retains control of its satellites down to an altitude of approximately 125 kilometers. This active navigation ensures that the units remain maneuverable and capable of avoiding collisions until the final stages of their atmospheric entry.
Safety Protocols for Atmospheric Re-entry
SpaceX designs its satellites to burn up upon re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere. By targeting remote ocean areas, the company mitigates the risk of debris reaching the surface. The company’s filings with the FCC emphasize that controlled, powered deorbiting is significantly safer than a passive, ballistic re-entry.
While most material vaporizes, some components with high melting points can survive the descent. According to company data, a small portion of the mass of a Starlink unit—primarily materials like the silicon found in solar panels—may survive the initial burn. SpaceX reports that these remnants are expected to be small fragments with minimal impact force.
Future Expansion and Third-Generation Satellites
The company’s long-term strategy involves moving beyond the current fleet. SpaceX has filed plans with the FCC to deploy many third-generation satellites. These units are significantly larger than their predecessors, with each individual craft weighing between 2 and 2.5 tons.
Comparison: Deorbiting Activity (2024–2026)
| Period | Satellites Removed |
|---|---|
| Dec 2024 – May 2025 | ~500 |
| Dec 2025 – May 2026 | 260 |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why does SpaceX deorbit its satellites?
Deorbiting is used to remove aging or faulty hardware, clear orbital space for new, more efficient units, and manage the overall health of the megaconstellation. - Do Starlink satellites pose a danger to people on the ground?
No. SpaceX performs controlled descents over oceans, far from populated areas and flight paths, to ensure that any surviving debris does not strike land or aircraft. - How many Starlink satellites are currently in space?
SpaceX has launched approximately 11 tys. units in total, with roughly 9,5 tys. currently active on orbit.
Stay informed on the latest developments in space infrastructure. Subscribe to our newsletter for updates on satellite technology and orbital management.