STARLINK-1953 (47554)

COSPAR: 2021-009G | Alt Name: Starlink 1953
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-1953 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

February 4, 2021

Launch Pad

LC40

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

47554

International Designator

2021-009G

Decay Date

3/9/2025

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-1953

Alternative Name

Starlink 1953

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
STARLINK-1953, also known as Starlink 1953, is a communication satellite launched by SpaceX on February 4, 2021, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The spacecraft has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and a span of 9 meters. It carries a Ku/Ka-band payload with optical inter-satellite links on a few prototypes and is equipped with krypton ion thrusters for propulsion. At launch, it had a mass of 260 kilograms and its dry mass is 248 kilograms. Power is supplied by solar arrays and batteries. The satellite's primary mission is communication, following the design and specifications typical 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.
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-L18-07

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

Satellite Articles

View All Posts »

Learn more about satellites and other related topics.

X Report 30 Oct 2025

X Report 30 Oct 2025

SpaceX continues to ramp up its operations with the launch of 29 more Starlink satellites, while significant upgrades at its Starbase facility signify ambitious future plans.

The Multi-Orbit Myth? Why One Startup Thinks the Satellite Industry Got It Wrong

The Multi-Orbit Myth? Why One Startup Thinks the Satellite Industry Got It Wrong

The satellite industry's biggest operators are betting on multi-orbit architectures that combine LEO, MEO, and GEO into unified networks. A San Francisco startup called Contrivian thinks they've overcomplicated the problem, and the physics might be on its side.

X Report 24 Aug 2025

X Report 24 Aug 2025

SpaceX successfully launched its CRS-33 Dragon cargo mission to the ISS, while preparations for the upcoming Starship Flight 10 continue, highlighting significant advancements in both cargo operations and test flight reliability.

X Report 8 Sep 2025

X Report 8 Sep 2025

The FAA has approved an increase in Falcon 9 launches while reviewing the environmental impacts of Starship launches in Florida, amidst growing community concerns on noise and other issues related to the Starship program.

Space Brief 15 Dec 2025

Space Brief 15 Dec 2025

Today's highlights include multiple SpaceX Starlink launches, a successful Rocket Lab mission for JAXA, and a scheduled launch update from Kennedy Space Center.

X Report 21 Mar 2025

X Report 21 Mar 2025

SpaceX achieves a historic rocket reuse milestone and successfully launches NRO satellites, alongside charming interactions during Crew-9 Dragon recovery.

Space Brief 9 Oct 2025

Space Brief 9 Oct 2025

Today's briefing covers key developments in defense budgets reshaping the space sector, significant Space Force contracts, and the latest news from the Chinese space station.

X Report 5 Apr 2025

X Report 5 Apr 2025

SpaceX secures major U.S. military contracts, Fram2 concludes historic mission, and preparations for another Starlink launch.