Starlink reaches 10,000 satellites launched, but not without consequences

Here is a 202-word summary of the news article: SpaceX's Starlink satellite network has reached a major milestone, with the company launching its 10,000th satellite into orbit. Over the past weekend, two Falcon 9 rockets carried a total of 56 new satellites, bringing the total number of Starlink satellites launched since 2019 to 10,044. Around 8,680 of these are currently active, with approximately 1-2 satellites burning up in Earth's atmosphere each day. While Starlink aims to provide global broadband internet access, the project has faced criticism. Researchers warn that the growing number of satellites in low-Earth orbit could lead to dangerous space debris and collisions. Astronomers also complain that the bright satellites interfere with sky observations. Furthermore, the burning up of old satellites may deposit significant amounts of aluminium oxide in the upper atmosphere, potentially warming the air and affecting the ozone layer. Despite these concerns, SpaceX has ambitious expansion plans for Starlink. The company could have over 30,000 satellites in orbit in the coming years, more than all other satellite programs combined. While the current 10,000 satellites are just an interim step, the environmental and scientific consequences of this rapid satellite proliferation remain uncertain and require further study.