STARLINK-2263 (48003)

COSPAR: 2021-024AC | Alt Name: Starlink 2263
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-2263 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

March 24, 2021

Launch Pad

LC40

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

48003

International Designator

2021-024AC

Decay Date

5/31/2025

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-2263

Alternative Name

Starlink 2263

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
The satellite STARLINK-2263 (OBJECT_ID: 2021-024AC) is a Starlink communication satellite launched on March 24, 2021, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It measures approximately 0.2 meters in length with a diameter of 2.8 meters and a span of 9 meters. The dry mass is recorded at 248 kilograms, with an initial launch mass of 260 kilograms. Manufactured by SpaceX (SPXS), the satellite features a Ku/Ka-band payload, optical inter-satellite links in prototype form, and solar arrays for power generation along with batteries. It utilizes Krypton ion thrusters as its propulsion system. The spacecraft has a box shape with additional panels, and its mission is to provide communication services.

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-L22-27

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.

X Report 20 Oct 2025

X Report 20 Oct 2025

SpaceX made significant strides with the successful launch of Starlink satellites and the approval for the redevelopment of SLC-6, reinforcing its foothold in commercial spaceflight.

X Report 24 Nov 2025

X Report 24 Nov 2025

SpaceX successfully launches 28 Starlink satellites on a new Falcon 9 rocket from California, marking a significant milestone for their satellite constellation.

X Report 22 Jan 2025

X Report 22 Jan 2025

SpaceX marks a successful launch of 21 Starlink satellites, follows up after Starship explosion, and influences Qantas flights amid a busy operational schedule.

X Report 22 May 2025

X Report 22 May 2025

SpaceX successfully launched 23 Starlink satellites on a brand-new Falcon 9 rocket, while preparations ramp up for Starship Flight 9 and a pioneering commercial docking mission approaches.

X Report 20 Mar 2025

X Report 20 Mar 2025

SpaceX successfully rotates Crew-9 and Crew-10 on the ISS and launches new Starlink satellites with direct-to-cell capability.

X Report 7 Dec 2025

X Report 7 Dec 2025

SpaceX receives approval for a new Starship launch complex, while Blue Origin capitalizes on potential challenges faced by SpaceX in lunar missions.

New Glenn Upper Stage Fails, BlueBird 7 Lost, Space Brief 20 Apr 2026

New Glenn Upper Stage Fails, BlueBird 7 Lost, Space Brief 20 Apr 2026

New Glenn's upper stage malfunctioned April 19, stranding AST SpaceMobile's BlueBird 7; the satellite is lost. Vulcan may fly without solid boosters.

X Report 3 Mar 2025

X Report 3 Mar 2025

SpaceX gears up for Starship Flight 8, with a launch set for Monday as final preparations are underway.