STARLINK-2556 (48302)

COSPAR: 2021-036AC | Alt Name: Starlink 2556

DECAYED

Image

Additional Sources

Launch Details

Launch Date

April 29, 2021

Launch Site

Cape Canaveral Space Force Station

Launch Pad

LC40

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

48302

International Designator

2021-036AC

Decay Date

12/20/2024

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-2556

Alternative Name

Starlink 2556

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary

The STARLINK-2556 satellite, also known as Starlink 2556, is a communication satellite part of SpaceX's Starlink constellation. Launched on April 29, 2021, from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, this satellite measures 0.2 meters in length and has a diameter of 2.8 meters with a span of 9 meters. It weighs approximately 248 kilograms dry and had a launch mass of 260 kilograms. The satellite is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities (all) along with optical inter-satellite links on a few prototypes. Power is generated through solar arrays and batteries, while propulsion uses Krypton ion thrusters for maneuvering.

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

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-L24-28

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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