The Starlink satellite train has become a captivating sight for skywatchers, offering a glimpse of the future of global internet coverage.
This dazzling spectacle occurs shortly after SpaceX launches a new batch of its Starlink satellites part of the megaconstellation that provides high-speed internet worldwide.
On clear nights, you may spot these satellites as they streak across the sky, resembling a string of bright, evenly spaced lights.
While these satellites concern astronomers due to their impact on observations, they’ve captured the public’s imagination.
The Starlink satellite train is often mistaken for UFOs because of its otherworldly appearance.
However, this striking formation is short lived as the satellites ascend to their operational orbit at 340 miles 550 kilometers, they disperse and blend into the starry backdrop.
If you’re hoping to spot this celestial procession, timing is everything so keep an eye on launch schedules and visibility forecasts.
The megaconstellation developed by the private spaceflight company SpaceX may grow to as many as 42,000 satellites in orbit, according to the science news website NASA Spaceflight.
As of March. 28, 2025, there are 7,135 Starlink satellites in orbit, of which 7,105 are working, according to Astronomer Jonathan McDowell, who tracks the constellation on his website.
Given the high numbers of regular Starlink launches sometimes multiple times a week, there is ample opportunity to set your sights on catching a glimpse of the infamous Starlink train.
However, it should be noted that Starlink satellites are not as visible nowadays compared to when they first started to be deployed back in 2019.
This is due to efforts such as the Starlink VisorSat program which aims to darken the satellites so as to not interfere as much with astronomical observations.
Source: https://www.space.com/starlink-satellite-train-how-to-see-and-track-it
