Over 100 of Elon Musk’s Starlink satellites fall from space sparking major concerns – OTV News
Tue, Feb 11, 2025 Over 120 Starlink satellites from Elon Musk’s SpaceX fell to Earth in January 2025, raising alarms over space debris and atmospheric pollution. Scientists warn of environmental risks linked to aluminium oxide emissions from burning satellites.Over 100 of Elon Musk’s Starlink satellites fall from space in January 2025More than 120 Starlink satellites operated by SpaceX plummeted back to Earth in January 2025, igniting widespread alarm among scientists and environmentalists. The incident highlights growing fears about space debris and atmospheric pollution linked to satellite networks.Notably, the SpaceX satellites are falling back to Earth as the Elon Musk-led company is phasing out its first-generation Starlink satellites (Gen1) to replace them with upgraded models.Out of the 4,700 Gen1 units launched since 2019, over 500 have already reached their lifespan limit. Astronomer Jonathan McDowell reported an unprecedented rate of four to five satellites burning up daily during January, creating visible fireballs.While SpaceX assures its satellites disintegrate completely—leaving no debris or safety risks—scientists warn of hidden dangers. Burning satellites release aluminium oxide, a compound linked to ozone layer depletion.The most recent reentry prediction data from Space Force has a plus or minus 18 minute uncertainty on the Starlink-5693 reentry time, corresponding to a path from Vanuatu to Honolulu to N Calif. to Milwaukee to NYC to the mid-Atlantic. But…A 2023 study found that 10% of aerosols sampled 60,000 feet above Alaska contained metals from satellite re-entries. Research also showed that aluminium oxides in the atmosphere surged eightfold between 2016 and 2022, raising fears of unpredictable atmospheric changes.ALSO READ: Is Elon Musk buying TikTok? Viral claims surface after MrBeast’s ‘billionaire’ remarkSpaceX’s nearly 7,000-strong satellite fleet, part of its global internet project, is refreshed every five years. However, scientists stress that the issue extends beyond Starlink. Studies indicate a 26% annual chance of rocket debris re-entering busy flight paths. While the risk of aircraft damage is low, such events could disrupt air travel and burden airlines with costs.ALSO READ: Indian space economy projected to touch $44 bn in next decade: Jitendra SinghCritics urge stricter regulations as private companies rapidly expand space infrastructure. “We’re conducting an uncontrolled experiment with Earth’s atmosphere,” warned McDowell. SpaceX maintains its commitment to sustainability, but experts argue the rush to dominate satellite internet demands greater transparency and environmental safeguards.As orbital traffic grows, balancing innovation with planetary protection remains a critical challenge.Our DivisionsCopyright © 2025 – Odisha Television Limited All Rights Reserved.
