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Satellite Mega-Constellation Faces Collision Risk, Researchers Warn

12/16/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Researchers led by Sarah Thiele warn that the satellite mega-constellation is unstable, likening it to a 'House of Cards'.
Close approaches occur every 22 seconds in Low-Earth Orbit, requiring Starlink satellites to perform about 41 evasive maneuvers annually.
Solar storms could disable navigational systems and increase atmospheric drag, raising the risk of catastrophic collisions.
The study urges urgent risk management, citing past severe solar storms that could disrupt satellite operations.

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Story summary

Researchers led by Sarah Thiele warn that the satellite mega-constellation is unstable, likening it to a 'House of Cards'.
Close approaches occur every 22 seconds in Low-Earth Orbit, requiring Starlink satellites to perform about 41 evasive maneuvers annually.
Solar storms could disable navigational systems and increase atmospheric drag, raising the risk of catastrophic collisions.
The study urges urgent risk management, citing past severe solar storms that could disrupt satellite operations.