Space Brief 2 Feb 2025
Today's highlights include new satellite launches by SpaceX, technical hiccups for an Indian navigation satellite, and insights into the future of satellite servicing.
STARLINK-2038 (47654)
COSPAR: 2021-012AL | Alt Name: Starlink 2038
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
February 16, 2021
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
47654
International Designator
2021-012AL
Decay Date
7/30/2025
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-2038
Alternative Name
Starlink 2038
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-2038 satellite, also known as Starlink 2038 and operated by SPXS, was launched on February 16, 2021, from LC40 at AFETR using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and spans 9 meters. The satellite's dry mass is 248 kg with a launch mass of 260 kg. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload (all) and optical inter-satellite links on a few prototypes, STARLINK-2038 uses solar arrays and batteries for power and employs Krypton ion thrusters as its propulsion system. The satellite's shape is described as "Box + pan," and it serves a communication mission.
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-L19-35
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.
Space Brief 5 Feb 2025
Today's briefing covers strategic military developments including missile defense proposals and board realignments, intertwined with rising space defense exports and autonomous launcher progress.
SpaceX Resumes Falcon 9 Launches After Investigating Upper Stage Anomaly
SpaceX successfully returns to flight with a Starlink mission, detailing the cause of the July 11 anomaly and implementing fixes to prevent future incidents.
Space Brief 14 Jun 2025
Today's space news roundup highlights a significant defense bill passed for the Space Force, a delay in the Axiom-4 mission due to ISS issues, and major satellite deals with NATO.
Space Brief 16 Oct 2024
In today's briefing: China accelerates its satellite megaconstellation. A comprehensive ESA-led optical data network is in the works, marking a key step in satellite communications. NASA's Artemis II crew visits Ohio in preparation for their lunar journey. SpaceX's record-breaking rocket launches continue. Plus, insights into nuclear rockets that could drastically shorten Mars missions.
AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile Unite vs Starlink D2D, X Report 18 May 2026
Starlink direct-to-device competition unites AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile for the first time as SpaceX's 10,354 working satellites reshape mobile coverage.
X Report 7 Dec 2024
SpaceX celebrates 300 successful booster landings, further solidifying its dominance in reusable rocket technology.
Space Brief 21 Jun 2025
Today's brief highlights a Pentagon satellite network challenge, the expanding use of AI in military strategy, and advancements in commercial launch vehicle production.