STARLINK-21 (44245)

COSPAR: 2019-029L | Alt Name: Starlink 21

DECAYED

Image

Additional Sources

Launch Details

Launch Date

May 24, 2019

Launch Site

Cape Canaveral Space Force Station

Launch Pad

LC40

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

44245

International Designator

2019-029L

Decay Date

9/22/2020

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-21

Alternative Name

Starlink 21

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary

The Starlink-21 satellite, also known as Starlink 21, is a communication satellite owned by SpaceX (SPXS). It was launched on May 24, 2019, from the Air Force Eastern Test Range using Falcon 9 at Launch Pad LC40. The spacecraft has dimensions of approximately 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter with a span of 9 meters. It is equipped with a Ku-band payload for its communication mission and powered by solar arrays and batteries. The dry mass of the satellite is 219 kilograms, while it had an initial launch mass of 227 kilograms. Starlink-21 uses krypton ion thrusters as its propulsion system. Its design includes a box shape with panels to accommodate its solar arrays and communication equipment.

Starlink is a satellite constellation developed by SpaceX with the aim of providing global broadband internet coverage. Thousands of small satellites are deployed in low Earth orbit (LEO), enabling high-speed internet access even in remote areas. However, the rapid increase in satellites raises concerns about space debris and the potential for collisions, which can lead to further debris creation and endanger other spacecraft. Additionally, the sheer number of Starlink satellites can affect astronomical observations by increasing light pollution. Proper deorbiting plans and international coordination are essential to mitigate these challenges and ensure long-term sustainability in space.

Physical Characteristics

Length

0.2

Diameter

2.8

Span

Dry Mass

219

Launch Mass

227

Shape

Box + pan

Radar Cross Section

Unknown

Visual Magnitude

Unknown

Color

Unknown

Material Composition

Unknown

Technical Details

Payload

Starlink V0.9-11

Purpose

Communication

Mission

Communication

Manufacturer

SPXS

Life Expectancy

Unknown

Bus

Starlink

Configuration

Unknown

Motor

Krypton ion thrusters

Equipment

Ku-band payload

Power System

Solar arrays, batteries

ADCS

Unknown

Transmitter Frequency

Unknown

Satellite Articles

View All Posts »

Learn more about satellites and other related topics.

108 Minutes That Changed Everything - and the 20-Year Echo That Followed

On April 12, 1961, a 27-year-old Soviet pilot rode a modified ICBM into orbit and came back alive after 108 minutes. Exactly twenty years later, two Americans climbed aboard an untested spacecraft covered in 31,000 ceramic tiles and bet their lives that the math was right.

Space Brief 17 Jun 2025

Today's space brief covers key developments in satellite monitoring, U.K. defense contracts, and critical licensing reforms supporting national security.

Space Brief 25 Oct 2025

Today's brief covers significant growth forecasts for global defense satellite communications, the integration of hypersonic missiles, cyber authority expansion in the Army, and more pivotal military developments.

Space Brief 15 Jan 2025

Focus on Varda's second mission launch, new U.S. Defense Department tool for satellite anomaly investigation, and a detailed Satellite Spotlight on CELESTIS 21/Varisat 1C.

X Report 15 Aug 2025

SpaceX achieves significant milestones with multiple satellite launches and ongoing challenges in rural broadband funding. Noteworthy advances in Starlink capabilities enhance international connectivity.

X Report 8 Feb 2025

SpaceX makes strides on Starship launch pad, upcoming Starlink infusions from California and Florida, and regulatory challenges loom with FCC and C-band spectrum.

X Report 7 Nov 2025

SpaceX successfully launched 28 Starlink satellites while EchoStar enhances its stake in the company through a $2.6 billion spectrum deal, amid growing demands for space domain awareness.

Space Brief 21 Jun 2025

Today's brief highlights a Pentagon satellite network challenge, the expanding use of AI in military strategy, and advancements in commercial launch vehicle production.