Starlink is making a big change with the position of its satellites that will have no big advantage for users and the internet speeds don’t improve either. Instead, SpaceX has made this decision to help
the space industry clear off some of the debris that has become an obvious concern as the space wars head to another level in the next few years.
As mentioned in a report by Reuters, Starlink internet service is reliable because of satellites but having them launched into space has a direct impact on the number of items in space and SpaceX is acting on those concerns with its latest move.
Starlink Satellites Getting Closer
The report claims Starlink satellites are currently positioned at around 550 km in space but that distance from Earth will be cut down to 480 km. This process will happen gradually in 2026 and not at the same time, which was never going to be possible with the scale of work. The reason to go below 500 km for SpaceX is linked to the area being less crowded with space debris and that allows them to operate freely and safely since the chances of collision with other satellites will be reduced.
The New Space War
Many companies are vying for a place in space but authorities have warned that the level of traffic needs to be controlled, which means even in space there are limitations. SpaceX leading the charge on this front will allow others to follow suit or even explore other positions for their satellites.
Yes, making this change has no impact on the internet speeds or the network range, but you cannot discount the value of having them closer to Earth which gives them better control over their systems, which is helpful in case of a serious mishap in the near future.
Starlink has set its eyes on launching in India, and the company had recently leaked the data plans and its price in the country, which Starlink claimed is not the actual prices for the market and it is still evaluating these plans.
