SpaceX is currently monitoring the controlled descent of a Starlink satellite after a gas leak led to loss of contact on December 17th. The incident highlights the inherent risks of operating the world’s largest satellite constellation-now comprising approximately 9,300 active satellites, or 65% of all devices in orbit [[1]], [[2]]-and the critical need for rapid damage assessment capabilities. While SpaceX reports no immediate threat to other spacecraft, [[3]] the situation underscores the challenges of maintaining a growing presence in low Earth orbit.
SpaceX is addressing an issue with one of its Starlink satellites after it lost contact with ground control on December 17th and experienced an unplanned gas leak from its propulsion system. The satellite is now unstable and is slowly descending toward Earth’s atmosphere, where it is expected to burn up within the coming weeks.
To assess the extent of the damage, SpaceX contracted Vantor (formerly Maxar Intelligence) to capture imagery of the satellite from orbit. The task was completed by the WorldView-3 observational satellite on December 18th, from a distance of 241 kilometers above Alaska. The high-resolution image – 12 centimeters in clarity – allowed for a detailed examination of the satellite’s condition.
Todd Surdey of Vantor emphasized that recent technological advancements enabled a rapid turnaround in providing information to SpaceX. “Our team leveraged advanced geospatial observation capabilities and recently expanded data collection capacity to confirm the satellite is largely intact,” Surdey said.
However, data collected following the incident indicates that several small fragments have detached from the satellite. SpaceX reports that both the main satellite and these fragments pose no threat to other objects in low Earth orbit.
Michael Nicolls, Vice President of Engineering for Starlink at SpaceX, stated: “We appreciate the quick response from Vantor, which enabled the imagery. Further analysis suggests a few trackable pieces have separated, and both the satellite and these debris items are expected to enter the atmosphere and completely burn up within several weeks.”
Starlink currently operates the largest satellite constellation in the world. According to SpaceX data, approximately 9,300 Starlink satellites are currently active in orbit, representing around 65 percent of all devices in orbit. The growing constellation is transforming global internet access, particularly in underserved areas, and driving innovation in satellite technology.
