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SpaceX takes a proactive step toward responsible behavior in orbit

"We commend this commitment as a first step."

SpaceX announced this week that it will voluntarily bring down about 100 of its first-generation Starlink satellites, which provide broadband Internet from low-Earth orbit, as part of its commitment to "space sustainability." However, in a statement, the company said, "The Starlink team identified a common issue in this small population of satellites that could increase the probability of failure in the future." The United States, primarily but not exclusively through NASA, has been pushing for in-space repairing and reviving of satellites to extend their useful lifetimes, including refurbishment activities.

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