STARLINK-1904 (48389)

COSPAR: 2021-038AN | Alt Name: Starlink 1904
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-1904 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

May 4, 2021

Launch Pad

LC39A

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

48389

International Designator

2021-038AN

Decay Date

8/29/2024

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-1904

Alternative Name

Starlink 1904

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
The STARLINK-1904 satellite, also known as Starlink 1904 and identified by NORAD CAT ID 48389 and OBJECT ID 2021-038AN, is part of the Starlink constellation owned by SpaceX (SPXS). It was launched on May 4, 2021, from LC39A at AFETR using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite measures 0.2 meters in length and has a diameter of 2.8 meters with a span of 9 meters. Its dry mass is 248 kilograms, and it was launched with a total mass of 260 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities along with optical inter-satellite links (prototypes), the satellite uses krypton ion thrusters for propulsion and solar arrays paired with batteries for power generation. Its primary mission is communication within SpaceX's constellation, though additional details about its specific operations or major events are not provided in the given data.

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-L25-37

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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