STARLINK-2600 (48387)

COSPAR: 2021-038AL | Alt Name: Starlink 2600

DECAYED

Image

Additional Sources

Launch Details

Launch Date

May 4, 2021

Launch Site

Cape Canaveral Space Force Station

Launch Pad

LC39A

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

48387

International Designator

2021-038AL

Decay Date

12/7/2024

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-2600

Alternative Name

Starlink 2600

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary

The Starlink satellite (NORAD_CAT_ID: 48387) named STARLINK-2600 was launched on May 4, 2021, from the Kennedy Space Center's Launch Complex 39A using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. Manufactured by SpaceX (SPXS), it is part of the Starlink constellation designed for communication purposes. The satellite measures approximately 0.2 meters in length and has a diameter of 2.8 meters with a span of 9 meters, likely due to its solar arrays or antennas when deployed. It has a launch mass of 260 kilograms and a dry mass of 248 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload (all) and optical inter-satellite links (in prototypes), it uses krypton ion thrusters for propulsion and solar arrays combined with batteries for power supply. The satellite's shape is described as "Box + pan" indicating its main body design possibly including a dish or panel structure.

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-L25-35

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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