Space Brief 26 Aug 2024
Today's briefing covers an exciting new satellite launch, a significant reentry, and unexpected space debris from a fragmentation event.
STARLINK-2174 (47756)
COSPAR: 2021-017AL | Alt Name: Starlink 2174
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
March 4, 2021
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
47756
International Designator
2021-017AL
Decay Date
2/10/2025
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-2174
Alternative Name
Starlink 2174
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-2174 satellite, also known as Starlink 2174, is a communication satellite under the Starlink constellation owned by SPXS (SpaceX). It was launched on March 4, 2021, from Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy Space Center using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has dimensions of approximately 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter, with a span of 9 meters. Its dry mass is 248 kilograms, and it weighs 260 kilograms at launch. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities and optical inter-satellite links (prototypes), the satellite uses krypton ion thrusters for propulsion and solar arrays combined with batteries for power supply. The satellite's shape is described as box-shaped with a pan design, aimed at supporting communication purposes in its 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-L17-35
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
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