Starlink Satellites Track Atmospheric Density

Scientists use Starlink satellite drag data to measure daily changes in Earth's upper atmosphere density, turning the megaconstellation into a planetary barometer. The sink rate, derived from orbital tracking, reflects how much a typical satellite would descend without thrusters, varying from 19.7 m/day in quiet periods to 127.6 m/day during strong geomagnetic storms. This real-time data improves orbit prediction and collision avoidance by calibrating atmospheric models, validated by independent measurements from Planet Labs Doves and other constellations.