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Oklahomans recently witnessed a line of white dots moving across the night sky, causing excitement and speculation. These mystery dots are actually SpaceX’s Starlink satellite train and are not related to an alien invasion. A Starlink satellite train is a stunning display of bright dots in the sky, made up of numerous satellites.

When launched into space, the satellites unfold their solar panels and lay flat to resist gravity’s pull back to Earth. They then position their panels upwards and antennae downwards to communicate data and internet services for customers. These satellites move at the same altitude and speed, spinning around the globe together in unison.

What is SpaceX?

Starlink is a satellite system developed by Elon Musk’s company SpaceX in 2015. Its purpose is to provide high-speed internet to remote areas by launching solar-powered satellites into orbit. SpaceX aims to deploy a total of 12,000 satellites, with the potential to extend this number to 42,000. Currently, around 4,500 satellites have been sent into orbit, providing internet connections to 1.5 million customers in approximately 50 countries and territories. The first 60 Starlink satellites were launched in 2019.

Private space companies like SpaceX have been launching an increasing number of satellites into orbit to meet the demand for global internet connectivity.

How can I see Starlink satellites?

Starlink satellites are visible in the night sky only when they reflect sunlight, as they do not emit light on their own. Mobile apps are available to help users locate satellites, including Starlink satellites. These apps provide real-time information and many can be used without an internet connection.

For those interested in tracking the exact location of Starlink satellites, the Starlink map shows their global coverage and the number of currently operating satellites. To find Starlink satellites in your area, you can use the “Find Starlink” feature.

For more information on how to track Starlink satellites, please click here.

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