X Report 29 Sep 2025
In today's update, SpaceX successfully launched 28 Starlink satellites from Vandenberg, while Italy grapples with its satellite strategy amid rising reliance on Starlink services.
STARLINK-2260 (47996)
COSPAR: 2021-024V | Alt Name: Starlink 2260
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
March 24, 2021
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
47996
International Designator
2021-024V
Decay Date
3/6/2025
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-2260
Alternative Name
Starlink 2260
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The Starlink-2260 satellite, also known as Starlink 2260 and designated by NORAD as 47996, was launched on March 24, 2021, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Launch Complex 40 using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It is part of SpaceX's Starlink constellation with the mission to provide communication services. The satellite has dimensions of approximately 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and spans about 9 meters. It weighs 260 kilograms at launch and has a dry mass of 248 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload (all) and optical inter-satellite links (a few prototypes), it uses solar arrays and batteries for power supply. Its propulsion system includes Krypton ion thrusters, and its shape is described as box + pan. The satellite was manufactured by SpaceX and operates in a communication role for the same company.
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-L22-20
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.
Geosynchronous Orbit (GEO)
Understanding the unique orbital sweet spot that keeps satellites perfectly positioned above Earth
The Day America Shot Down Its Own Spy Satellite
Seventeen years ago, a Navy cruiser in the Pacific fired a missile at a tumbling reconnaissance satellite that had failed within hours of reaching orbit - officially to prevent toxic fuel from reaching the ground, unofficially to prove something far more significant to China and the world
X Report 15 Nov 2024
SpaceX preps for its sixth Starship test flight, moving the Super Heavy rocket to the pad. China's unveils a Starship-like reusable rocket concept, while Starlink expands with 24 new satellites launched.
X Report 30 Oct 2025
SpaceX continues to ramp up its operations with the launch of 29 more Starlink satellites, while significant upgrades at its Starbase facility signify ambitious future plans.
Space Force Raises Andromeda Contract to $6.2B for SSA Satellites | KeepTrack Space Brief
U.S. Space Force increased Andromeda contract ceiling to $6.2 billion for next-generation space situational awareness satellites replacing GSSAP and SILENTBARKER programs.
Space Brief 10 Apr 2025
Key topics today include the US Space Force's new international strategy, China's partnership with Pakistan for astronaut training, and conservation concerns over SpaceX landing proposals.
Low Earth Orbit (LEO)
The bustling downtown of space: where most satellites operate, communication networks bloom, and the challenges of atmospheric drag and radiation shape our approach to space operations