STARLINK-2596 (48409)

COSPAR: 2021-038BJ | Alt Name: Starlink 2596

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

48409

International Designator

2021-038BJ

Decay Date

8/26/2024

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-2596

Alternative Name

Starlink 2596

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary

The STARLINK-2596 satellite, also known as Starlink 2596, is part of SpaceX's Starlink constellation designed for communication purposes. Launched on May 4, 2021, from the Kennedy Space Center (LC39A) using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, it has a dry mass of 248 kg and was manufactured by SpaceX. The satellite features a box-shaped body with solar arrays and batteries for power generation. It is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload systems and some prototypes include optical inter-satellite links. Its propulsion system uses krypton ion thrusters to maintain orbit. With dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and a span of 9 meters, the satellite aims to provide global internet coverage as part of SpaceX's broader Starlink project.

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-L25-57

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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