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STARLINK-2016 (47639)
COSPAR: 2021-012V | Alt Name: Starlink 2016
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
February 16, 2021
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
47639
International Designator
2021-012V
Decay Date
1/23/2025
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-2016
Alternative Name
Starlink 2016
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-2016 satellite, also known as Starlink 2016 and identified by NORAD CAT ID 47639, is a communication satellite owned by SpaceX (SPXS). It was launched on February 16, 2021, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Launch Complex 40 via a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. With dimensions of approximately 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter, the satellite features a span of 9 meters and has a dry mass of 248 kilograms and a launch mass of 260 kilograms. The Starlink V1.0-L19-20 payload includes Ku/Ka-band communication capabilities alongside optical inter-satellite links on prototypes. Power is generated through solar arrays with battery support, while its propulsion system utilizes Krypton ion thrusters. The satellite's shape consists of a box configuration with a pan design, and it serves as part of SpaceX’s broader Starlink constellation for providing 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.
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-L19-20
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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