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STARLINK-1978 (47576)
COSPAR: 2021-009AE | Alt Name: Starlink 1978
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
February 4, 2021
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
47576
International Designator
2021-009AE
Decay Date
2/12/2026
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-1978
Alternative Name
Starlink 1978
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The satellite named STARLINK-1978 (OBJECT_ID: 2021-009AE) is a Starlink communication satellite launched on February 4, 2021, from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station (LC40), using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter with a span of 9 meters, and its dry mass is 248 kilograms. The satellite was manufactured by SpaceX (SPXS) for communication purposes and equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload systems and optical inter-satellite links on prototypes. It utilizes krypton ion thrusters as motors and solar arrays along with batteries for power supply.
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-L18-29
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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