STARLINK-1956 (47557)

COSPAR: 2021-009K | Alt Name: Starlink 1956

DECAYED

Image

Additional Sources

Launch Details

Launch Date

February 4, 2021

Launch Site

Cape Canaveral Space Force Station

Launch Pad

LC40

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

47557

International Designator

2021-009K

Decay Date

2/1/2025

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-1956

Alternative Name

Starlink 1956

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary

The STARLINK-1956 satellite, also known as Starlink 1956, is a communication satellite operated by SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on February 4, 2021, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Launch Complex 40 using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, it has a configuration of a box with a pan shape. The satellite measures approximately 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter with a span of 9 meters. It weighs around 260 kilograms at launch and carries a dry mass of 248 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities, it also features optical inter-satellite links for communication purposes. The spacecraft is powered by solar arrays and batteries, and its propulsion system uses krypton ion thrusters for maneuvering in orbit.

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

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-L18-10

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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