Space Brief 2 May 2025
Today's space highlights include significant military contracts for aerospace innovations, advancements in small-satellite procurement, and discussions on the role of nuclear energy in space exploration.
STARLINK-1721 (46332)
COSPAR: 2020-062H | Alt Name: Starlink 1721
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
September 3, 2020
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
46332
International Designator
2020-062H
Decay Date
10/15/2024
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-1721
Alternative Name
Starlink 1721
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-1721 satellite, also known as Starlink 1721, is a communication satellite owned by SPXS (SpaceX). It was launched on September 3, 2020, from the Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy Space Center using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. This satellite has a length of 0.2 meters and a diameter of 2.8 meters with a span of 9 meters. The spacecraft weighs 260 kilograms at launch, with a dry mass of 248 kilograms. It is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload (all), optical inter-satellite links (prototypes for some), and uses krypton ion thrusters as its motor system. Its shape can be described as box-like with a pan configuration. The satellite's power comes from solar arrays and batteries, and it was manufactured by SPXS for communication purposes.
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
248
Launch Mass
260
Shape
Box + pan
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Starlink V1.0-L11-32
Purpose
Communication
Mission
Communication
Manufacturer
SPXS
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Starlink
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Krypton ion thrusters
Equipment
Ku/Ka-band payload (all), optical inter-satellite links (a few prototypes)
Power System
Solar arrays, batteries
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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