Close Satellite Approaches and Starlink's Expanding Fleet
Today's orbital briefing highlights several close approaches between satellites, the continued expansion of the Starlink constellation, and a stable space weather outlook.
| Active satellites | 18,110 |
| Starlink active | 9,831 |
| Catalogued objects | 29,456 |
| Predicted re-entries | 21 |
| Active close approaches | 17 |
| People in space | 1,120,260,912,045,056.1 |
Several close approaches between satellites have been tracked, including a near miss between TERRA SAR X and TANDEM X, with a minimum distance of approximately 0.86 km. Such events underscore the importance of continuous monitoring of orbital traffic to prevent potential collisions. Orbital Radar's SSA hub offers tools for tracking these close encounters.
Starlink's Expanding Presence
As of 12 September 2026, 9,831 Starlink satellites are operational, according to Orbital Radar tracking data. This expansion is part of SpaceX's ongoing efforts to provide global internet coverage. The total number of Starlink satellites launched has reached 11,133, with 892 currently raising their orbits and 410 in the process of deorbiting.
Stable Space Weather Conditions
Current space weather conditions are stable, with all metrics indicating a 'green' status. Solar wind speed is at 428 km/s and the geomagnetic activity index (Kp) is at 0, suggesting minimal impact on satellite operations in low Earth orbit (LEO) and geostationary orbit (GEO). For those interested in detailed space weather data, Orbital Radar's SSA hub provides comprehensive insights.
What to Watch
While there are no launches scheduled for today, space enthusiasts can look forward to tracking visible satellite passes using the Orbital Radar pass predictor. Additionally, a star explosion 45 million light-years away offers a unique observational opportunity for astronomers and hobbyists alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Starlink satellites are currently operational?
What is the closest satellite approach recorded today?
📎 Cite this article · data available
Orbital Radar Newsroom. (2026). Close Satellite Approaches and Starlink's Expanding Fleet. Orbital Radar. https://orbitalradar.com/blog/orbital-briefing-2026-09-12"Close Satellite Approaches and Starlink's Expanding Fleet." Orbital Radar, 12 September 2026, https://orbitalradar.com/blog/orbital-briefing-2026-09-12.@misc{orbitalradar_orbital_briefing_2026_09_12,
title = {Close Satellite Approaches and Starlink's Expanding Fleet},
author = {{Orbital Radar}},
year = {2026},
howpublished = {\url{https://orbitalradar.com/blog/orbital-briefing-2026-09-12}}
}
