Starlink is probably not the biggest concern for that as they’ve reduced the altitude their satellite’s orbit at vs initial plans (and are incentivised to do so because of the reduced latency as an internet service). So in theory, they should de orbit relatively quickly because of that, more drag the lower you go. The sheer number of Starlink satellites is concerning though.
The most concerning objects for Kessler syndrome are the largest pieces of space debris at higher altitudes that won’t de orbit quickly. Large rocket stages, larger decommissioned satellites, and so forth.
IIRC their deorbiting satellites have raised atmospheric aluminum levels by some ridiculous amount in a few years, which has some pretty serious potential ramifications for the environment. Temp increases around the equator I think.
Mhmm, kessler me harder daddy
Starlink is probably not the biggest concern for that as they’ve reduced the altitude their satellite’s orbit at vs initial plans (and are incentivised to do so because of the reduced latency as an internet service). So in theory, they should de orbit relatively quickly because of that, more drag the lower you go. The sheer number of Starlink satellites is concerning though.
The most concerning objects for Kessler syndrome are the largest pieces of space debris at higher altitudes that won’t de orbit quickly. Large rocket stages, larger decommissioned satellites, and so forth.
IIRC their deorbiting satellites have raised atmospheric aluminum levels by some ridiculous amount in a few years, which has some pretty serious potential ramifications for the environment. Temp increases around the equator I think.
They’re tearing a hole in the fucking ozone again, most likely.