Already it has launched 540, making it one of the largest satellite operators in the world, officials said, with more satellites in space than even China. In orbit, objects travel at immense speed — the International Space Station, for example, whizzes around Earth at 17,500 mph. ADThough outfitted with material intended to protect against debris strikes, the space station from time to time has had to maneuver to avoid getting hit. And with more satellites being launched, the chance of more close calls and collisions will only rise. The satellites are outfitted with thrusters and can “autonomously perform maneuvers to avoid collisions with space debris and other spacecraft,” the company said.

Source: Washington Post July 23, 2020 11:00 UTC