STARLINK-51 (44272)

COSPAR: 2019-029AP | Alt Name: Starlink 51
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-51 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

May 24, 2019

Launch Pad

LC40

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

44272

International Designator

2019-029AP

Decay Date

9/2/2020

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-51

Alternative Name

Starlink 51

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
STARLINK-51, also known as Starlink 51, is a communication satellite belonging to SpaceX's Starlink constellation. Launched on May 24, 2019, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station using Falcon 9 launch vehicle at Launch Pad LC40, it serves the purpose of communication via its Ku-band payload and Krypton ion thrusters for maneuvering. The satellite measures 0.2 meters in length with a diameter of 2.8 meters and a span of 9 meters. It has a dry mass of 219 kilograms and weighed 227 kilograms at launch. Equipped with solar arrays and batteries for power, its shape is described as "Box + pan." The satellite was manufactured by SpaceX (SPXS) and operated under the same ownership.

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 V0.9-38

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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