X Report 23 Nov 2024
SpaceX advances with Starship tests as Starlink continues global expansion. Key infrastructure updates from Cape Canaveral involve multiple industry players.
STARLINK-2421 (48098)
COSPAR: 2021-027G | Alt Name: Starlink 2421
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
April 7, 2021
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
48098
International Designator
2021-027G
Epoch
Sat, 04 Jul 2026 03:05:41 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
333.18°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
106.08°
Period
94.01 min
Mean Motion
15.32 rev/day
Latitude
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Longitude
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Altitude
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Velocity
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Polar Plot
3D Visualization
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-2421
Alternative Name
Starlink 2421
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 48098U 21027G 26185.12894921 -.00001084 00000-0 -23165-4 0 9995
2 48098 53.1603 333.1824 0000917 106.0841 254.0261 15.31708250290496
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The STARLINK-2421 satellite, also known as Starlink 2421, is a communication satellite operated by SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on April 7, 2021, from the Air Force Eastern Test Range (AFETR) using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, it has a dry mass of 248 kg and was launched with a total mass of 260 kg. The satellite measures 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and its solar arrays span 9 meters. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload (all) and optical inter-satellite links (prototypes), it uses krypton ion thrusters for propulsion and relies on solar arrays and batteries for power supply. Its purpose is to provide communication services as part of the Starlink constellation, specifically designated as Starlink V1.0-L23-07 payload.
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-L23-07
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
Map
Next Pass
Azimuth Elevation Time (Local)
Start Azimuth
Max Elevation
Stop Azimuth
Time Until
Pass Duration
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