STARLINK-2247 (48446)

COSPAR: 2021-040U | Alt Name: Starlink 2247
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-2247 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

May 9, 2021

Launch Pad

LC40

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

48446

International Designator

2021-040U

Decay Date

9/14/2024

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-2247

Alternative Name

Starlink 2247

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
The STARLINK-2247 satellite, also known as Starlink 2247, is a communication satellite operated by SPXS (SpaceX). It was launched on May 9, 2021, from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station's Launch Complex 40 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. Its dry mass is 248 kilograms, with a launch mass of 260 kilograms. It is equipped with a Ku/Ka-band payload and optical inter-satellite links, along with solar arrays and batteries for power generation. The satellite uses krypton ion thrusters for propulsion and has a box plus pan shape design.

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-L27-19

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

Satellite Articles

View All Posts »

Learn more about satellites and other related topics.

X Report 3 Apr 2025

X Report 3 Apr 2025

Exciting advancements from SpaceX's Fram2 mission and the pivotal role of biotech in space exploration.

The Evolution of Space Stations

The Evolution of Space Stations

A brief journey through the evolution of space stations, delving into Russia's Mir, the International Space Station, China's Tiangong, and envisioning the future of orbital habitats.

X Report 2 Feb 2025

X Report 2 Feb 2025

SpaceX successfully launched 43 Starlink satellites across two missions, marking significant achievements at Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg Space Force Bases.

FAA Grounds Starship V3 After Flight 12, X Report 28 May 2026

FAA Grounds Starship V3 After Flight 12, X Report 28 May 2026

FAA grounds SpaceX Starship V3 after the Flight 12 mishap, freezing the launch schedule. Plus a $2.29B Space Force contract and 10,397 working Starlinks.

X Report 25 Mar 2025

X Report 25 Mar 2025

SpaceX achieves new milestones with back-to-back launches for the NRO while preparing for groundbreaking crewed polar mission FRAM2.

X Report 22 May 2025

X Report 22 May 2025

SpaceX successfully launched 23 Starlink satellites on a brand-new Falcon 9 rocket, while preparations ramp up for Starship Flight 9 and a pioneering commercial docking mission approaches.

Vulcan Centaur Launches GSSAP Surveillance Satellites for Space Force | KeepTrack Space Brief

Vulcan Centaur Launches GSSAP Surveillance Satellites for Space Force | KeepTrack Space Brief

ULA Vulcan Centaur launches USSF-87 with two GSSAP surveillance satellites to near-GEO orbit. NRO expands commercial imaging. Integrate raises $17M for classified platform.

Space Brief 9 Dec 2025

Space Brief 9 Dec 2025

Today's edition covers significant military space developments, including DIU tech consolidation discussions, NDAA budget expansions, and new military commands.