STARLINK-2216 (48012)

COSPAR: 2021-024AM | Alt Name: Starlink 2216
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-2216 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

March 24, 2021

Launch Pad

LC40

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

48012

International Designator

2021-024AM

Decay Date

4/7/2023

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-2216

Alternative Name

Starlink 2216

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
The STARLINK-2216 satellite, also known as Starlink 2216 and designated OBJECT_ID 2021-024AM, is part of the Starlink constellation operated by SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on March 24, 2021, from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station's Launch Complex 40 using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, this communication satellite has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter with an overall span of 9 meters. The satellite weighs 260 kilograms at launch and has a dry mass of 248 kilograms. It is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload technology and optical inter-satellite links, featuring solar arrays and batteries for power generation. The propulsion system uses Krypton ion thrusters to maintain its orbital position.

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-L22-36

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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