NEWS — Space Safety RSS

The SpaceX Stargaze SSA system uses space-based observational data to provide real-time space situational awareness and conjunction warnings to satellite operators. By offering ephemeris sharing and conjunction data free of charge, Stargaze encourages collaboration to reduce collision risk in low Earth orbit and supports safer orbital operations as satellite traffic increases.

The SpaceX Stargaze SSA system is a new space situational awareness platform that uses data from star trackers on Starlink satellites to detect orbital objects and provide real-time conjunction screening. By offering this conjunction data free of charge to satellite operators who share their ephemeris data, SpaceX aims to improve safety across low Earth orbit and encourage broader collaboration toward ephemeris sharing and safe flight practices.

In 2026, Starlink orbital reconfiguration for space safety will gradually lower the altitude of approximately 4,400 satellites from around 550 km to 480 km to enhance collision avoidance and hasten natural deorbiting of failed units. This approach reduces ballistic decay times by over eighty percent and places satellites in a less congested orbital band, significantly improving overall space safety. The maneuver, coordinated with regulators and U.S. Space Command, reflects Starlink’s commitment to long-term space sustainability in a crowded low Earth orbit environment.