STARLINK-1976 (47574)

COSPAR: 2021-009AC | Alt Name: Starlink 1976

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

47574

International Designator

2021-009AC

Decay Date

4/29/2025

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-1976

Alternative Name

Starlink 1976

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary

STARLINK-1976 is a communication satellite launched by SpaceX (SPXS) on February 4, 2021, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Launch Complex 40 using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The spacecraft measures 0.2 meters in length and has a diameter of 2.8 meters with a span of 9 meters. It carries a Ku/Ka-band payload along with optical inter-satellite links on some prototypes, and is equipped with solar arrays and batteries for power generation. With a dry mass of 248 kilograms and a launch mass of 260 kilograms, it uses krypton ion thrusters as its propulsion system. The satellite's shape is described as box plus pan configuration and its purpose is to provide communication services.

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-L18-27

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.

Largest Satellite Debris Events

Space debris poses a mounting threat to both satellites and space missions. As we send more objects into orbit, the likelihood of collisions and subsequent breakups producing dangerous space debris increases. Recognizing the major events that have generated this dangerous space junk is pivotal in ensuring the safety of future space missions.

Trump Seeks Starlink for Iran Internet, China Plans 200,000-Satellite Constellation | KeepTrack Space Brief

Trump seeks Musk's help to restore internet in Iran via Starlink. China files for 200,000-satellite constellation. Sweden allocates $1.6B for air defense and $140M for space capabilities.

Space Brief 1 Feb 2025

Today's brief covers advances in satellite docking technology, challenges faced by space companies with government navigation, and China's leap in space autonomy through AI developments.

Space Brief 22 Nov 2024

Today's key topics include delays in Vulcan's national security launches, a significant network upgrade contract for the Space Force, and military interest in SpaceX's Starship.

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.

How does Google Map's Satellite View Feature Work?

Learn which satellites take photos and why we can't get updates instantly.

Space Brief 4 Oct 2025

Today's Space Brief highlights major developments in satellite launches, regulatory milestones for spectrum sales, and the evolving landscape of space-related cyber conflicts.

X Report 1 Dec 2024

SpaceX continues its collaboration with the NRO, while gearing up for lunar missions and a contract for NASA's Dragonfly mission to Titan.