Elon Musk's Starlinks are crashing: 120 satellites fell from space in January 2025

In recent months, skywatchers and scientists have noticed an increasing number of Starlink satellites re-entering Earth’s atmosphere, creating bright streaks in the night sky before burning up. In January 2025 alone, nearly 120 Starlink satellites plummeted from orbit, marking the highest number of re-entries in a single month. But why is this happening, and should we be concerned?

Why Are Starlink Satellites Falling From Space?

The recent wave of re-entries is not accidental. SpaceX, the company behind Starlink, is deliberately deorbiting older satellites from its first-generation fleet to make way for newer, more advanced models. SpaceX is currently deorbiting around four to five satellites per day, ensuring that its vast satellite constellation remains up-to-date.

According to Jonathan McDowell, an astrophysicist at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, “This is all planned. SpaceX built these satellites with a limited lifespan, and as they reach the end of their operational period, they’re being safely removed.”

How Do Starlink Satellites Deorbit?

Unlike traditional space debris, which can pose a significant risk of collision, Starlink satellites are designed to fully burn up upon re-entry, minimizing any danger of falling wreckage. These satellites are placed in low Earth orbit (LEO) at about 550 km (342 miles) altitude, where atmospheric drag gradually pulls them downward once they’re decommissioned.

SpaceX has assured that over 95% of each satellite disintegrates in the atmosphere, leaving behind little to no debris that could reach the ground.

Are There Environmental Concerns?

Despite SpaceX’s assurances, scientists are beginning to raise concerns about the long-term effects of these frequent re-entries. Some researchers worry that burning satellites release aluminum oxides and other particles into the upper atmosphere, which could have unknown environmental consequences over time.

A 2023 study published in Geophysical Research Letters warned that as satellite numbers grow, their atmospheric impact could become more significant, potentially affecting ozone chemistry and climate patterns.

Is This a Sign of Starlink Failures?

No, the falling satellites do not indicate failures within the Starlink system. Instead, this process is part of SpaceX’s strategy to continuously upgrade its satellite network and maintain optimal performance for users worldwide.

Starlink currently operates over 5,500 satellites in orbit and continues to launch more every month. The second-generation satellites offer better internet coverage, increased bandwidth, and improved sustainability, making the replacement of older models a necessary step.

What’s Next for Starlink?

SpaceX plans to launch thousands more satellites in the coming years, with approval from the FCC to deploy up to 42,000 satellites as part of its global broadband network. However, the company will also need to address rising concerns about space debris, atmospheric pollution, and potential regulatory challenges from governments and space agencies.

For now, if you see a bright streak in the sky, it might just be a retired Starlink satellite making its final descent.