STARLINK-2573 (48394)

COSPAR: 2021-038AT | Alt Name: Starlink 2573

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

48394

International Designator

2021-038AT

Decay Date

1/8/2025

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-2573

Alternative Name

Starlink 2573

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary

The STARLINK-2573 satellite, also known as Starlink 2573, is a communication spacecraft launched by SpaceX (SPXS) on May 4, 2021, from the Kennedy Space Center's Launch Complex 39A using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has dimensions of approximately 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter with a span of 9 meters, featuring a box plus pan shape. Its dry mass is 248 kilograms, while its launch mass was 260 kilograms. It is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload communications and optical inter-satellite links for communication purposes. The satellite uses solar arrays and batteries for power generation and has krypton ion thrusters as its motor system.

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-L25-42

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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