STARLINK-2444 (48108)

COSPAR: 2021-027S | Alt Name: Starlink 2444
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-2444 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

April 7, 2021

Launch Pad

LC40

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

48108

International Designator

2021-027S

Decay Date

6/24/2024

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-2444

Alternative Name

Starlink 2444

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
The STARLINK-2444 satellite, also known as Starlink 2444 and identified by NORAD catalog ID 48108, is a communication satellite manufactured by SPXS (SpaceX). Launched on April 7, 2021, from the LC40 launch pad at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, it weighs 260 kg at launch and has a dry mass of 248 kg. The satellite is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload systems and optical inter-satellite links, along with krypton ion thrusters for propulsion. It uses solar arrays and batteries for power. Its dimensions include a length of 0.2 meters, diameter of 2.8 meters, and span of 9 meters. The satellite's shape is described as box-shaped with a pan configuration and serves the purpose of communication.

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-L23-17

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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