Space Brief 18 Sep 2024
Today's Space Brief covers Rocket Lab's IoT satellite launch, SpaceX's European Galileo satellites, FAA's fine on SpaceX, Polaris Dawn mission achievements, and more.
STARLINK-1984 (47581)
COSPAR: 2021-009AK | Alt Name: Starlink 1984
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
February 4, 2021
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
47581
International Designator
2021-009AK
Decay Date
11/10/2024
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-1984
Alternative Name
Starlink 1984
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The satellite STARLINK-1984 (OBJECT_ID: 2021-009AK) is a Starlink communication satellite launched by SpaceX on February 4, 2021, from Launch Complex 40 at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It measures 0.2 meters in length with a diameter of 2.8 meters and a span of 9 meters. The satellite has a dry mass of 248 kilograms and was launched with a total mass of 260 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload (all) and optical inter-satellite links, it uses solar arrays and batteries for power supply and krypton ion thrusters as its motor system. The satellite's shape is described as "Box + pan," and it was manufactured by SpaceX.
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-L18-34
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.
Falcon 9 B1067 Targets 36th Flight Record on Starlink 10-42 | KeepTrack Space Brief
SpaceX Falcon 9 booster B1067 set for 36th flight Thursday with Starlink 10-42 mission from Cape Canaveral. Long March 10B debuts Friday in China.
X Report 20 Jun 2025
SpaceX experiences significant setbacks with Starship after Ship 36 explodes during static fire preparations, while Eutelsat secures funding to bolster competition against Starlink.
Space Brief 21 Nov 2025
Today's brief covers the Space Force's strategic roadmap, a groundbreaking DARPA mission in Very Low Earth Orbit, and enhanced cyber defenses due to AI-driven threats.
SpaceX Acquires xAI, Amazon Buys 10 More Falcon 9 Launches | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX officially acquires xAI for orbital data centers. Amazon buys 10 additional Falcon 9 launches for Project Kuiper. Starlink helps Iranian protesters bypass blackout.
Artemis 2 Delayed by Upper Stage Issue, Falcon 9 Hits 33rd Flight | KeepTrack Space Brief
NASA delays Artemis 2 for SLS upper stage fix and pad rollback. SpaceX Falcon 9 booster shatters reuse record with 33rd flight. Tory Bruno joins Blue Origin for defense work.
The Evolution of Space Stations
A brief journey through the evolution of space stations, delving into Russia's Mir, the International Space Station, China's Tiangong, and envisioning the future of orbital habitats.
SpaceX Targets 600th Falcon Booster Landing on Starlink 17-22 | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX attempts its 600th Falcon 9 booster landing during the Starlink 17-22 mission, adding 25 satellites from Vandenberg SFB.