The announcement was made by Michael Nicholls, Vice President of Starlink Engineering, in a post on X. Starlink, currently the world’s largest satellite constellation, provides broadband internet services across multiple regions, including parts of Africa. In Nigeria, it ranks as the second-largest internet service provider with 66,523 customers as of Q2 2025, according to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
Nicholls said the adjustment will condense Starlink’s orbital shells, shorten deorbit times, and reduce collision risks, particularly as solar minimum conditions approach, when satellites tend to remain in orbit longer due to decreased atmospheric density. Lowering satellites below 500 km could reduce ballistic decay time by more than 80%, meaning satellites that might otherwise take four years or more to deorbit could instead re-enter the atmosphere within months.
The move is also expected to lower the probability of orbital collisions, as fewer debris objects and satellite constellations occupy altitudes below 500 km. While Starlink satellites are highly reliable, with only two failures out of more than 9,000 operational units, rapid deorbiting of any failed satellites is a key safety measure.
Nicholls emphasized that the process will be “tightly coordinated” with other satellite operators, regulators, and the United States Space Command (USSPACECOM).
Starlink’s presence in Africa is expanding through its direct-to-cell service, which aims to bridge connectivity gaps. Airtel Africa recently signed an agreement with SpaceX to deploy Starlink direct-to-cell services across multiple African countries, including Nigeria.
The rapid growth of satellite constellations has raised global concerns about space debris and the sustainability of low Earth orbit. By proactively lowering its satellites and coordinating with regulators, SpaceX positions Starlink as a safety-conscious leader in an increasingly crowded orbital environment.
