Starlink satellites may harm Earth's ozone layer

Elon Musk's Starlink has revolutionized internet access in rural areas, but a recent study suggests it may harm the ozone layer. This issue arises when Starlink's satellites, at the end of their life, burn up in Earth's atmosphere and release tiny particles of aluminum oxide. Researchers at the University of Southern California found that aluminum oxides in the atmosphere have increased significantly from 2016 to 2022. While not all of this is from Starlink, the company has the largest number of satellites in low Earth orbit, with over 6,000 out of about 8,100 total satellites. Each Starlink satellite lasts about five years and can release more than 66 pounds of aluminum oxide during reentry. Heavier models are being deployed, raising concerns about the growing amount of aluminum particles in the atmosphere. A significant increase was noted in 2022, and researchers predict that future launches could worsen this problem. The study warns of a potential 640% increase in aluminum levels in the coming years as more satellites are launched. Aluminum oxide particles remain hazardous to the ozone layer for decades, as they do not get consumed in the process of depletion. As Starlink plans to expand its satellite fleet and with additional projects like Amazon's Project Kuiper on the horizon, concerns about environmental impacts are rising. Experts note that more than 100,000 satellites in orbit is increasingly likely due to the expansion of private companies. The Environmental Protection Agency has highlighted that excessive ultraviolet radiation could lead to serious health issues, including skin cancer and reduced crop yields. The study emphasizes the need for more research on the environmental effects of satellite reentries, particularly as launch rates rise. Starlink has yet to comment on the findings.