Starlink data maps thermospheric density for satellite collision risk

Kyoto University researchers used Starlink satellite data to create the first tomographic map of Earth's thermospheric density at 482 kilometers.

Kyoto University researchers analyzed orbital data from approximately 1,200 Starlink satellites to produce the first tomographic map of Earth's thermospheric density at 482 kilometers. This technique, which applies medical imaging principles to satellite data, measures the upper atmosphere's neutral gas composition—constituting about 99% of the 100-1,000 kilometer altitude range. The findings align with European Space Agency satellite measurements and aim to improve collision prediction in increasingly crowded low Earth orbits. The study, published August 12, 2026, represents an initial demonstration of the technique using publicly available orbital data.

This work directly supports space infrastructure safety by enabling more precise tracking of satellite collision risks. For the commons, it reduces the likelihood of orbital debris cascades that could disrupt critical space services. The source describes this as an initial technique demonstration with limited scope to the 100-1,000 kilometer altitude range and no immediate climate or disaster applications.

Source: ScienceDaily