Space Brief 9 Sep 2024
Today's Space Brief explores new satellite launches, significant reentries, funding milestones, and critical policy updates.
STARLINK-2181 (47763)
COSPAR: 2021-017AT | Alt Name: Starlink 2181
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
March 4, 2021
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
47763
International Designator
2021-017AT
Decay Date
1/7/2025
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-2181
Alternative Name
Starlink 2181
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The satellite identified by NORAD CAT ID 47763 and OBJECT ID 2021-017AT is a Starlink satellite named STARLINK-2181, owned and manufactured by SPXS (SpaceX). Launched on March 4, 2021, from Launch Complex 39A at the Kennedy Space Center using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, it has dimensions of approximately 0.2 meters in length with a diameter of 2.8 meters and a span of 9 meters. The satellite's dry mass is 248 kg, and its total launch mass was 260 kg. It is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload communications equipment on all units, and some prototypes feature optical inter-satellite links. Its propulsion system utilizes Krypton ion thrusters for orbital adjustments, and it relies on solar arrays and batteries for power supply. The mission objective of STARLINK-2181 is to provide communication services as part of SpaceX's broader Starlink constellation project.
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-L17-42
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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