STARLINK-56 (44283)

COSPAR: 2019-029BA | Alt Name: Starlink 56
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-56 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

May 24, 2019

Launch Pad

LC40

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

44283

International Designator

2019-029BA

Decay Date

9/10/2020

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-56

Alternative Name

Starlink 56

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
The STARLINK-56 satellite, also known as Starlink 56, is a communication satellite manufactured by SPXS and owned by SpaceX (SPXS). It was launched on May 24, 2019, from the Air Force Eastern Test Range (AFETR) LC40 launch pad using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and a span of 9 meters. Its dry mass is 219 kg and it had a launch mass of 227 kg. It carries a Ku-band payload for communication purposes and uses solar arrays and batteries for power. The satellite employs krypton ion thrusters as its motor system and has a box-shaped structure with pan design, typical of the Starlink constellation's early satellites (V0.9-49 series).

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 V0.9-49

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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