Space Brief 28 Mar 2025
Today's updates focus on significant developments in U.S. national security space launches, Army space training, potential shifts in satellite procurement strategies, and the Meteor 2-21 satellite.
STARLINK-2127 (47403)
COSPAR: 2021-005BG | Alt Name: Starlink 2127
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
January 20, 2021
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
47403
International Designator
2021-005BG
Decay Date
3/15/2025
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-2127
Alternative Name
Starlink 2127
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The satellite named STARLINK-2127 (OBJECT_ID: 2021-005BG) is a Starlink communication satellite manufactured by SPXS and owned by the same entity. Launched on January 20, 2021, from LC39A at AFETR using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, this satellite has dimensions of approximately 0.2 meters in length with a diameter of 2.8 meters and a span of 9 meters. It weighs 248 kilograms dry and had an initial launch mass of 260 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload (all) and optical inter-satellite links (a few prototypes), it is powered by solar arrays and batteries, and its propulsion system utilizes Krypton ion thrusters. The satellite has a box plus pan shape and serves communication purposes as part of the Starlink constellation.
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-L16-55
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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