SpaceX and OneWeb's satellites were dangerously close to colliding with each other in orbit last weekend, according to reports.<\/p>\n
The Verge reported that it was the first known crash-avoidance incident for the two companies as they try to grow their new broadband-beaming networks in space.<\/p>\n
The event occurred after OneWeb blasted a new batch of 36 satellites into orbit and had to dodge through an array of Starlinks to reach its targeted orbit.<\/p>\n
The outlet said \"red alerts\" were sent from the US Space Force 18th Space Control Squadron to both companies. The US government agency found the satellites only 190 feet apart. A collision would have sent hundreds more pieces of debris flying around space. This could potentially also have led to further collisions with other nearby objects.<\/p>\n
OneWeb's satellites operate at an orbit roughly 550 km higher than SpaceX's Starlink. This means OneWeb's constellation must pass through SpaceX's sea of satellites.<\/p>\n
As both teams tried to coordinate, it was discovered that SpaceX disabled its automated AI-powered collision-avoidance system to give OneWeb the opportunity to drive its satellite out of the way, according to Chris McLaughlin, chief of government, regulation, and engagement at OneWeb.<\/p>\n
McLaughlin spoke to Insider's Kate Duffy last week to discuss OneWeb's strategy. He addressed concerns relating to the way big space companies are launching thousands of satellites.<\/p>\n
He said the practice is \"not a responsible way forward for future generations,\" adding that OneWeb is \"adopting a more responsible use of space.\"<\/p>\n
OneWeb plans to have 648 satellites at 1,200 km in orbit in line with its goal to provide a global broadband service. The company's most recent launch on March 25 took it up to 146 satellites.<\/p>\n
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SpaceX and OneWeb satellites nearly crashed into each other in orbit, according to reports - Business Insider<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" SpaceX and OneWeb's satellites were dangerously close to colliding with each other in orbit last weekend, according to reports. The Verge reported that it was the first known crash-avoidance incident for the two companies as they try to grow their new broadband-beaming networks in space Continue reading