STARLINK-2056 (47665)

COSPAR: 2021-012AX | Alt Name: Starlink 2056

DECAYED

Image

Additional Sources

Launch Details

Launch Date

February 16, 2021

Launch Site

Cape Canaveral Space Force Station

Launch Pad

LC40

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

47665

International Designator

2021-012AX

Decay Date

3/3/2025

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-2056

Alternative Name

Starlink 2056

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary

The STARLINK-2056 satellite, also known as Starlink 2056, is part of the Starlink constellation owned by SpaceX (SPXS). It was launched on February 16, 2021, from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station's Launch Complex 40 using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. This communication satellite has dimensions of approximately 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and 9 meters in span. It features a box with a panel design and is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload (present in all Starlink satellites), optical inter-satellite links (prototypes only), and krypton ion thrusters for propulsion. The satellite's dry mass is 248 kilograms, with an overall launch mass of 260 kilograms, powered by solar arrays and batteries.

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

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-L19-46

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 17 Sep 2025

Highlights include China's recent satellite launch, advancements in nuclear propulsion, non-kinetic tech developments for maritime defense, SpaceX's direct-to-device spectrum tests, and maneuvering satellites for Space Force missions.

Space Brief 22 Oct 2025

Today's briefing covers space-based missile defense, AI maritime surveillance, and new governmental shifts impacting the defense sector.

Space Brief 3 Feb 2025

Today's brief covers SpaceX's continued Starlink expansions, Japan's successful Michibiki satellite launch, and challenges faced by India's navigation satellite. Stay updated on crucial satellite events and launches.

Space Brief 27 Nov 2024

Space highlights include a debut launch of ZhuQue-2E, Firefly's lunar lander timeline, semiconductor funding for satellites, and ISS debris avoidance.

Space Brief 8 Jul 2025

Today's highlights include the cancellation of Starship landing plans, Planet Labs' defense expansion, and cutting-edge radiation-hardened tech for space and defense.

Space Brief 10 Dec 2025

Today's brief covers China's intense launch schedule, a new Arctic military constellation, Muon Space's defense innovations, and SpaceX's classified NROL-77 mission.

X Report 14 Jul 2025

SpaceX successfully launched the Dror 1 satellite for Israel Aerospace Industries, marking another step forward in their launch capabilities.

X Report 10 Jun 2025

Exciting advancements from SpaceX include the debut of a new Dragon capsule for Axiom Space, continued Starlink deployments, and significant shifts in U.S. rural broadband funding that could benefit Starlink.