STARLINK-2028 (47646)

COSPAR: 2021-012AC | Alt Name: Starlink 2028
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-2028 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

February 16, 2021

Launch Pad

LC40

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

47646

International Designator

2021-012AC

Decay Date

1/13/2025

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-2028

Alternative Name

Starlink 2028

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
The STARLINK-2028 satellite, also known as Starlink 2028, is a communication satellite operated by SpaceX (SPXS). It was launched on February 16, 2021, from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station LC40 using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. With dimensions of 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter, it has a span of 9 meters and weighs approximately 260 kilograms at launch, with a dry mass of 248 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities and optical inter-satellite links on prototypes, the satellite is powered by solar arrays and batteries. Its propulsion system uses krypton ion thrusters for orbital adjustments. The satellite's primary mission is to provide communication services as part of SpaceX's Starlink constellation.

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-L19-27

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.

X Report 28 Nov 2025

X Report 28 Nov 2025

Today marks a significant milestone as SpaceX successfully launches another batch of Starlink satellites, boosting global connectivity efforts.

X Report 10 Apr 2025

X Report 10 Apr 2025

SpaceX gears up for multiple Falcon 9 launches, amidst challenges from Project Kuiper and environmental concerns.

SpaceX Hits 600th Falcon 9 Launch, NASA SLS Leak Tests Struggle | KeepTrack Space Brief

SpaceX Hits 600th Falcon 9 Launch, NASA SLS Leak Tests Struggle | KeepTrack Space Brief

SpaceX reaches 600th Falcon 9 launch with Starlink 17-13 from Vandenberg. NASA SLS hydrogen leak repairs only partially successful. New book explores forces shaping space.

X Report 6 Mar 2025

X Report 6 Mar 2025

Starship Flight 8 set for launch, new milestones in the defense sector, and launch updates dominate today's news.

Tianlong-3 Fails on Debut; SpaceX Wins $178.5M Space Force Contract | KeepTrack Space Brief

Tianlong-3 Fails on Debut; SpaceX Wins $178.5M Space Force Contract | KeepTrack Space Brief

China's Tianlong-3 rocket failed during ascent on debut launch Friday. SpaceX secured $178.5M Space Force contract for missile tracking satellite launches beginning 2027.

X Report 4 Jan 2025

X Report 4 Jan 2025

SpaceX kicks off 2025 with successful launches and a record-breaking outlook, aiming to maintain its market leadership amidst emerging competition.

X Report 21 Oct 2025

X Report 21 Oct 2025

NASA considers opening the Artemis 3 lander to new bids as delays surface, while SpaceX gears up for multiple Falcon 9 launches this week and secures a redevelopment nod for SLC-6.

Vietnam Licenses Starlink for 600K Terminals, Isaacman Plans Roscosmos Visit | KeepTrack Space Brief

Vietnam Licenses Starlink for 600K Terminals, Isaacman Plans Roscosmos Visit | KeepTrack Space Brief

Vietnam approves Starlink with up to 600,000 terminals and 4 gateway stations. SpaceX hits 600th Falcon 9 launch. NASA's Isaacman plans Roscosmos meeting and Soyuz visit.