Can You File a Lawsuit if SpaceX Debris Causes Injury, Death, or Property Damage?

Satellite Internet Innovation Meets Real-World Danger

Starlink, the satellite-based internet service from SpaceX, has brought high-speed internet to millions of users around the world. But this technological breakthrough is also raising serious safety questions. Designed to orbit Earth and eventually burn up in the atmosphere, some of these satellites are not fully disintegrating as intended. Instead, their fragments are landing back on Earth, sometimes with significant force.

These incidents, though rare, have already occurred. In multiple confirmed cases, large pieces of Starlink satellites have fallen onto farmland in Canada. While no one has been hurt so far, the danger to people, property, and infrastructure is undeniable. These events are drawing attention to the potential legal liability when satellite technology malfunctions and creates harm.

What Happened in Canada?

In one case, a five-pound aluminum piece from a Starlink satellite crashed into a field in Saskatchewan. Another incident involved a laptop-sized component from a different satellite, which was also confirmed to be from Starlink. In both cases, the fragments were supposed to have burned up during re-entry but survived due to technical failures, including problems with satellite de-orbiting and degraded altitude control.

SpaceX admitted that these satellites were part of earlier models and has since improved the design for newer versions. However, with over 7,000 Starlink satellites already in orbit and thousands more planned, the likelihood of future incidents is a growing concern.

What Is the Danger to the Public?

Satellite debris falling from orbit can travel at high speeds and impact with significant force. Even a small object can cause devastating injuries or death. Although SpaceX claims to design satellites so that fragments land with less than three joules of energy, actual crash incidents suggest otherwise. The risk includes:

• Head trauma or fatal impact injuries
• Damage to residential or commercial structures
• Fires or explosions from high-velocity impacts
• Agricultural losses or environmental harm from debris

These risks are especially serious given that satellite debris does not always fall over open ocean or unpopulated areas. Despite planning, atmospheric re-entry is not always precise. As demonstrated by the Canadian cases, debris can and does land in active farmland — and could just as easily strike a vehicle, home, or pedestrian.

Property Damage and Economic Consequences

Satellite parts crashing to Earth can cause significant destruction. Large components may puncture roofs, damage vehicles, destroy crops, or even spark wildfires. The cost of repairs, cleanup, and lost productivity can be substantial.

Owners of affected property may be entitled to compensation for:

• Structural damage to homes or businesses
• Crop destruction and soil contamination
• Equipment loss or damage
• Devaluation of property
• Disruption of agricultural or commercial operations

SpaceX has, in at least one case, paid a private citizen $3,900 for returning satellite debris. But this does not cover the broader consequences or potential injuries that could result from such an event. Victims may need to seek legal action to recover full and fair compensation.

Can Victims File a Lawsuit?

Yes. If someone is injured or killed by falling satellite debris, or if their property is damaged, they may have the right to file a lawsuit. These legal claims can include:

• Personal injury or wrongful death
• Property damage
• Negligence for failure to maintain satellite safety
• Product liability for defective satellite design

Lawsuits can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, funeral costs, pain and suffering, property replacement, and other related damages. In some cases, punitive damages may be available if a court finds gross negligence or disregard for safety.

Why the Risks May Grow

SpaceX is currently de-orbiting hundreds of aging Starlink satellites. The company says it is doing so cautiously, aiming for controlled descent over oceans. But even SpaceX admits that not all materials disintegrate. Components such as aluminum and ceramic inductor cores have high melting points and may survive re-entry.

The problem is expected to escalate as the satellite constellation expands. With thousands of active satellites and more launches planned, the chance of debris impacting populated areas increases. Astronomers and safety experts have already voiced concern about the risk posed by failed de-orbiting and satellite malfunctions.

How Our Law Firm Can Help Victims

Parker Waichman LLP is a national personal injury and wrongful death law firm that represents victims across all 50 states. If a Starlink satellite has caused injury, property damage, or loss of life, our legal team is prepared to investigate and take action.

We can:

• Review your incident and assess liability
• Work with aerospace and engineering experts
• Handle all legal filings and insurance negotiations
• Pursue full compensation for your losses

We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we recover money for you.

Contact Parker Waichman LLP For a Free Case Review

If falling Starlink debris has impacted your life, Parker Waichman LLP is here to help. Our legal team is actively investigating these cases and prepared to fight for those harmed by space-based technologies gone wrong.

Regardless of your location or where your injury occurred, our nationwide product injury law firm is ready to assist you. Call 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER (1-800-968-7529) today for a free consultation.