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STARLINK-55 (44268)
COSPAR: 2019-029AK | Alt Name: Starlink 55
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
May 24, 2019
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
44268
International Designator
2019-029AK
Decay Date
3/9/2021
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-55
Alternative Name
Starlink 55
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
STARLINK-55, also known as Starlink 55, is a communication satellite belonging to SpaceX (SPXS). It was launched on May 24, 2019, from Launch Complex 40 at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The spacecraft has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter with a span of 9 meters, indicating it likely includes deployable solar arrays or other structures. It has a dry mass of 219 kilograms and was launched with a total mass of 227 kilograms. The satellite is equipped with a Ku-band payload for communication purposes, powered by solar arrays and batteries, and uses Krypton ion thrusters as its motor system. Its shape is described as box-like with an additional pan configuration.
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.
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
9
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 V0.9-34
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
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