The starlink constellation is-
Nearly 12,000 satellites are planned to be deployed, with a possible later extension to 42,000.
If they last 5 years that’s 2400-8400 deorbiting per year. These aren’t the ones “answering the mysteries of the universe” these are the ones selling internet access.
From the article-
plunge through the atmosphere and disintegrate, leaving a stream of pollutants in their wake. Although scientists do not yet know how this will influence Earth’s environment, Dr. Ross thinks that it will be the most significant impact from spaceflight.
well i was contrasting how say, the hubble telescope is a worthwhile satellite that will eventually burn up in the atmosphere, while starlink is wasteful…
Hubble is so far away it won’t reenter for a very long time. And that’s 1 versus 12000.