Final answer:
The number of airborne aircraft the STARS can track is not provided, but modern systems can handle several hundred aircraft. The capacity is designed to meet the demands of terminal areas and maintain air travel safety.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Standard Terminal Automation Replacement System (STARS) is utilized by air traffic controllers to monitor and manage air traffic within a terminal area. While the precise number of airborne aircraft that STARS can track simultaneously is not mentioned in the provided references, it's essential to point out that modern air traffic control systems are designed to handle several hundred aircraft at a time, scaling with the size of the terminal area and the complexity of the airspace.
For example, considering a busy airport with an average of 2,500 arrivals and departures per day, the system should be capable of tracking all these flights within its designated airspace. However, the actual capacity may vary depending on the system's configuration, updates, and technological advancements. Air traffic control systems are critical for maintaining the efficacy and safety of air travel, especially in post-9/11 scenarios where security has become even more stringent.