STARLINK-2359 (47899)

COSPAR: 2021-021AR | Alt Name: Starlink 2359

DECAYED

Image

Additional Sources

Launch Details

Launch Date

March 14, 2021

Launch Site

Cape Canaveral Space Force Station

Launch Pad

LC39A

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

47899

International Designator

2021-021AR

Decay Date

10/18/2023

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-2359

Alternative Name

Starlink 2359

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary

The satellite named STARLINK-2359 (OBJECT_ID: 2021-021AR) is a Starlink communication satellite launched by SpaceX on March 14, 2021, from the Kennedy Space Center LC39A launch pad using a Falcon 9 rocket. It has dimensions of approximately 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter with a span of 9 meters. The satellite's dry mass is recorded at 248 kg, and it had an initial launch mass of 260 kg. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload communications equipment and optical inter-satellite links for selected prototypes, the satellite uses solar arrays and batteries as its power source and relies on Krypton ion thrusters for propulsion. It features a box shape with additional panels and is used primarily for communication purposes under ownership of SpaceX (SPXS).

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-L21-40

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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