Space Brief 4 Apr 2025
Today's highlights include the release of a mystery object by Russian military satellites, SpaceX Fram2 mission insights, Amazon's upcoming satellite launch, and more.
STARLINK-53 (44294)
COSPAR: 2019-029BM | Alt Name: Starlink 53
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
May 24, 2019
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
44294
International Designator
2019-029BM
Decay Date
9/26/2020
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-53
Alternative Name
Starlink 53
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The Starlink-53 satellite, also known as Starlink 53, is owned and operated by SPXS (SpaceX) for communication purposes. It was launched on May 24, 2019, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Launch Complex 40 using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has a length of 0.2 meters, a diameter of 2.8 meters, and a span of 9 meters. It weighs approximately 219 kilograms dry and had an initial launch mass of 227 kilograms. Equipped with a Ku-band payload and Krypton ion thrusters for propulsion, the satellite generates power through solar arrays and batteries. Its shape is described as "Box + pan." The mission objective of Starlink-53 is to enhance global communication services as part of SpaceX's Starlink constellation project.
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 V0.9-60
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.
X Report 7 May 2025
SpaceX achieves significant milestones with a successful Falcon 9 launch carrying 28 Starlink satellites and receives FAA approval for increased Starship launches, amidst challenges posed by India's new satellite regulations.
Starship Flight 13 to Debut First Starlink V3 Satellites | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX readies Starship Flight 13 for July 16 launch to deploy first Starlink V3 satellites as Falcon 9 logs its 600th booster reuse.
Space Force Awards Pulse Space $40M for Laser Power Tech | KeepTrack Space Brief
Space Force awards Pulse Space $40 million to develop laser systems for transmitting power and data between spacecraft in orbit. Game-changing on-orbit energy transfer capability.
Space Brief 27 Feb 2025
Today's highlights include Rocket Lab's progress on the Space Force's VICTUS HAZE mission, BlackSky's new government contract, and AEI's policy recommendations for Space Force restructuring.
X Report 2 Dec 2025
SpaceX successfully launched its 60th mission of the year, deploying 27 Starlink satellites from California. The company continues to hit milestones, confirming its dominance in spaceflight as Elon Musk acknowledges the achievement. Spire also expands its partnership with Deloitte to enhance cybersecurity in orbit.
Space Brief 20 Aug 2024
Polaris Dawn's upcoming commercial spacewalk, successful lunar orbit by Chinese spacecraft, and more space news including SpaceX's Starlink mission, RFA's static-fire failure, and advances in satellite technology.
Space Brief 30 Jun 2025
Today's highlights include SpaceX's record-breaking launches, Japan's final H-2A launch, and significant developments in satellite data policies impacting weather forecasting.