Space Brief 18 Nov 2024
Today's brief highlights a Starlink satellite launch, an OpTech optical sensor contract for the Space Force, and a unique STEM experiment involving space-flown seeds.
STARLINK-1977 (47575)
COSPAR: 2021-009AD | Alt Name: Starlink 1977
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
February 4, 2021
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
47575
International Designator
2021-009AD
Decay Date
2/25/2025
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-1977
Alternative Name
Starlink 1977
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-1977 satellite, also known as Starlink 1977, is a communication satellite operated by SpaceX (SPXS). It was launched on February 4, 2021, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Launch Complex 40 using the Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length and a diameter of 2.8 meters with a span of 9 meters. It has a dry mass of 248 kg and was launched with a mass of 260 kg. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload (all) and optical inter-satellite links on prototypes, it uses solar arrays and batteries for power supply. The satellite employs krypton ion thrusters as its propulsion system.
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-L18-28
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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