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STARLINK-2580 (48279)
COSPAR: 2021-036D | Alt Name: Starlink 2580
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
April 29, 2021
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
48279
International Designator
2021-036D
Decay Date
4/17/2025
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-2580
Alternative Name
Starlink 2580
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The Starlink-2580 satellite, designated 48279 by NORAD and identified as OBJECT_ID 2021-036D, is a part of SpaceX's Starlink constellation designed for communication purposes. Launched on April 29, 2021, from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station (LC40) using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, this satellite has a length of 0.2 meters and a diameter of 2.8 meters with a span of 9 meters. It weighs approximately 260 kilograms at launch and operates primarily on solar power supplemented by batteries. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities and optical inter-satellite links (in prototypes), it uses krypton ion thrusters for propulsion. The satellite's structure is described as box-shaped with a pan configuration, manufactured by SpaceX to provide global 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.
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-L24-05
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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