Space Brief 6 Feb 2025
Today's brief covers a diverse range of topics, including reentry mission approvals, leadership changes in the Space Development Agency, and innovative military satellite communications.
STARLINK-2540 (48290)
COSPAR: 2021-036Q | Alt Name: Starlink 2540
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
April 29, 2021
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
48290
International Designator
2021-036Q
Decay Date
1/13/2026
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-2540
Alternative Name
Starlink 2540
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-2540 satellite, also known as Starlink 2540, is a communication satellite manufactured by SpaceX (SPXS) and launched on April 29, 2021, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Launch Complex 40 using the Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It belongs to the Starlink constellation and has a configuration of Bus: Starlink with dimensions measuring 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and spans up to 9 meters. The satellite's dry mass is 248 kilograms, while its launch mass was 260 kilograms. It features Ku/Ka-band payload equipment (present on all), optical inter-satellite links (on a few prototypes), and uses Krypton ion thrusters for propulsion. Power is provided by solar arrays and batteries. The satellite's shape is described as box with pan, and it serves communication purposes in its mission.
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-L24-16
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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