Starlink Satellite Anomaly: Tumbling Toward Earth After Explosion

SpaceX has lost contact with one of its Starlink satellites due to a mysterious anomaly, leading to its unexpected tumbling toward Earth. According to Gizmodo, the satellite experienced a drop of approximately 2.5 miles in altitude, which has raised concerns that it may have exploded in orbit.

LeoLabs, a company that tracks orbital debris, detected multiple objects around the satellite, suggesting an internal energetic source caused the incident rather than a collision. Astrophysicist Jonathan McDowell indicated that further observations are needed to understand the situation fully.

SpaceX has committed to investigating the anomaly and is deploying software updates to enhance satellite protection. This incident highlights ongoing concerns about satellite safety and the increasing threat of space debris, especially as SpaceX aims to expand its Starlink constellation to 42,000 satellites.

Notably, this occurrence follows a recent close call between a Starlink satellite and a Chinese satellite, emphasizing the growing risks associated with increased satellite traffic in low Earth orbit.