Space Brief 8 Dec 2024
Explore today's key space events including a SpaceX Starlink launch, Neuraspace's new telescope for space traffic monitoring, and Globalstar's defense-focused satellite service debut.
STARLINK-2614 (48380)
COSPAR: 2021-038AD | Alt Name: Starlink 2614
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
May 4, 2021
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
48380
International Designator
2021-038AD
Epoch
Fri, 03 Jul 2026 07:58:40 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
167.59°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
95.12°
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-2614
Alternative Name
Starlink 2614
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 48380U 21038AD 26184.33241599 .00000787 00000-0 37110-4 0 9992
2 48380 53.1591 167.5899 0001225 95.1236 264.9906 15.31717349284977
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The satellite named STARLINK-2614, also known as Starlink 2614, is a communication satellite operated by SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on May 4, 2021, from LC39A at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, it belongs to the Starlink constellation. The spacecraft measures 0.2 meters in length with a diameter of 2.8 meters and spans up to 9 meters, featuring a configuration described as "Box + pan." It has a dry mass of 248 kilograms and was launched with a total mass of 260 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities and optical inter-satellite links (prototypes), the satellite uses solar arrays and batteries for power generation. Its propulsion system consists of Krypton ion thrusters, designed to maintain its orbital position.
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-L25-28
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
Map
Next Pass
Azimuth Elevation Time (Local)
Start Azimuth
Max Elevation
Stop Azimuth
Time Until
Pass Duration
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