STARLINK-2560 (48402)

COSPAR: 2021-038BB | Alt Name: Starlink 2560
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-2560 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

May 4, 2021

Launch Pad

LC39A

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

48402

International Designator

2021-038BB

Decay Date

8/30/2024

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-2560

Alternative Name

Starlink 2560

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
The satellite STARLINK-2560 (OBJECT_ID: 2021-038BB) is a Starlink communication satellite launched on May 4, 2021, from the LC39A launch pad at AFETR using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The spacecraft measures 0.2 meters in length, has a diameter of 2.8 meters, and spans 9 meters, with a dry mass of 248 kilograms and a launch mass of 260 kilograms. It is owned by SPXS and manufactured by the same entity. The satellite is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload (all) and optical inter-satellite links (some prototypes), and its propulsion system uses Krypton ion thrusters. Power generation comes from solar arrays, supported by batteries. Its shape consists of a box structure with additional panels.

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-L25-50

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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