Why Elon’s million satellites could spell disaster
Feb 23, 2026 •
Elon Musk and his SpaceX team want to launch up to one million satellites as part of a proposal to power massive data centres in space.
They pitch it as a clean, green alternative to regular data centres. But as Earth’s orbit becomes increasingly crowded, what will Elon’s mega constellation do to our night sky? And could a crash between satellites set off a catastrophic chain reaction?
Today, Associate Professor of Astronomy Sam Lawler on the potential for disaster, the need for new space laws, and the time a huge piece of space junk landed in her home town!
If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.
Why Elon’s million satellites could spell disaster
1828 • Feb 23, 2026
Why Elon’s million satellites could spell disaster
Elon Musk and his SpaceX team want to launch up to one million satellites as part of a proposal to power massive data centres in space.
They pitch it as a clean, green alternative to regular data centres. But as Earth’s orbit becomes increasingly crowded, what will Elon’s mega constellation do to our night sky? And could a crash between satellites set off a catastrophic chain reaction?
Today, Associate Professor of Astronomy Sam Lawler on the potential for disaster, the need for new space laws, and the time a huge piece of space junk landed in her home town!
If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.
Guest: Associate Professor of Astronomy, Samantha Lawler
Listen and subscribe in your favourite podcast app (it's free).
7am is a daily show from Solstice Media.
It’s made by Arielle Richards, Atticus Bastow, Chris Dengate, Daniel James, Krystal Keller, Nicole Johnston, Travis Evans and Zoltan Fecso.
Our theme music is by Ned Beckley and Josh Hogan of Envelope Audio.