STARLINK-2013 (47636)

COSPAR: 2021-012S | Alt Name: Starlink 2013
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-2013 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

February 16, 2021

Launch Pad

LC40

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

47636

International Designator

2021-012S

Decay Date

3/23/2025

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-2013

Alternative Name

Starlink 2013

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
The STARLINK-2013 satellite, also known as Starlink 2013, is a communication satellite manufactured by SpaceX (SPXS) and launched on February 16, 2021, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's LC40 launch pad using a Falcon 9 rocket. It has dimensions of approximately 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and spans 9 meters when deployed. The satellite weighs 248 kilograms dry and had an initial launch mass of 260 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload technology and optical inter-satellite links (prototypes), it uses solar arrays and batteries for power and employs krypton ion thrusters as its propulsion system. Its mission is to provide communication services, contributing to the Starlink constellation's goal of global internet coverage.

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-L19-17

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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