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Starlink Near Miss Sparks Call for Space Traffic Control

12/19/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On December 12, a Starlink satellite nearly collided with a newly launched Chinese satellite unknown to SpaceX.
SpaceX Vice President Michael Nicholls said the satellites did not coordinate, and the close approach was about 200 meters.
The Chinese satellite's identity remains unclear, as multiple orbiters were launched during that mission.
Nicholls emphasized the need for a space traffic control system to prevent future disasters.

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Story summary

On December 12, a Starlink satellite nearly collided with a newly launched Chinese satellite unknown to SpaceX.
SpaceX Vice President Michael Nicholls said the satellites did not coordinate, and the close approach was about 200 meters.
The Chinese satellite's identity remains unclear, as multiple orbiters were launched during that mission.
Nicholls emphasized the need for a space traffic control system to prevent future disasters.