Starlink: Current Status and Future Launches in 2026
Starlink has 9,839 active satellites as of 2026, with future launches planned using Falcon 9 and Starship vehicles.
| Active satellites | 15,723 |
| Starlink active | 9,839 |
| Catalogued objects | 31,357 |
| Active close approaches | 19 |
| People in space | 10 |
Starlink, SpaceX's satellite internet constellation, currently boasts 9,839 active satellites in orbit, according to Orbital Radar's live catalogue. This expansive network aims to provide global internet coverage, with thousands more satellites planned for future deployment. The constellation's growth continues with regular launches, primarily using SpaceX's Falcon 9 rockets.
Recent and Upcoming Starlink Launches
SpaceX has maintained a steady pace with its Starlink launches. On 6 September 2026, a Falcon 9 rocket successfully deployed 27 satellites, designated as Starlink Group 15-24, from Vandenberg Space Force Base. Another launch is scheduled for 20 September 2026, with the Falcon 9 set to carry the Starlink Group 15-27 into orbit. Additionally, a significant launch is planned for 28 September 2026, involving the Starship vehicle, which will further expand the constellation.
Starlink's Orbital Characteristics
The recently launched Starlink satellites, such as STARLINK-38412 (NORAD 100640), are deployed in orbits approximately 324×329 km above Earth with an inclination of 70.0°. These low Earth orbits (LEO) are strategic for reducing latency in internet communications, a key advantage of the Starlink system. As of now, 946 satellites are in the process of raising their orbits, while 343 are deorbiting.
Starlink's Impact and Challenges
Starlink aims to revolutionise internet access by providing high-speed connectivity to remote and underserved areas. However, the rapid expansion of the constellation raises concerns about space debris. With 31,357 tracked objects in orbit, including 9,893 pieces of debris, the potential for collisions increases. Orbital Radar's Debris Map is an essential tool for monitoring these risks.
Key Takeaways
As of 2026, 9,839 Starlink satellites are active, with more launches planned. The constellation's growth is facilitated by SpaceX's Falcon 9 and Starship vehicles. While Starlink offers significant benefits for global connectivity, it also contributes to the increasing density of objects in low Earth orbit, necessitating careful monitoring and management.
Frequently Asked Questions
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📎 Cite this article · data available
Orbital Radar Newsroom. (2026). Starlink: Current Status and Future Launches in 2026. Orbital Radar. https://orbitalradar.com/blog/starlink-status-future-launches-2026"Starlink: Current Status and Future Launches in 2026." Orbital Radar, 18 September 2026, https://orbitalradar.com/blog/starlink-status-future-launches-2026.@misc{orbitalradar_starlink_status_future_launches_2026,
title = {Starlink: Current Status and Future Launches in 2026},
author = {{Orbital Radar}},
year = {2026},
howpublished = {\url{https://orbitalradar.com/blog/starlink-status-future-launches-2026}}
}
