STARLINK-2690 (48480)

COSPAR: 2021-040BE | Alt Name: Starlink 2690
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-2690 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

May 9, 2021

Launch Pad

LC40

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

48480

International Designator

2021-040BE

Decay Date

8/16/2024

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-2690

Alternative Name

Starlink 2690

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
STARLINK-2690 is a Starlink satellite launched on May 9, 2021, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, LC40, using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The spacecraft has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter with a span of 9 meters. It has a dry mass of 248 kilograms and was launched with a total mass of 260 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload (all) and optical inter-satellite links (a few prototypes), it uses krypton ion thrusters for propulsion, solar arrays, and batteries for power supply. The satellite's mission is focused on communication purposes, and its shape consists of a box plus pan design. Manufactured by SPXS, the satellite operates under the ownership of SpaceX and carries the payload named Starlink V1.0-L27-53.

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-L27-53

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.

FCC Approves Reflect Orbital Sunlight Satellite | KeepTrack Space Brief

FCC Approves Reflect Orbital Sunlight Satellite | KeepTrack Space Brief

FCC clears Reflect Orbital's first satellite to bounce sunlight into nighttime zones, despite pushback from astronomers concerned about orbital streaking and wildlife impacts.

DAF Space Restructure Announced Within Days, PAE Leaders Named | KeepTrack Space Brief

DAF Space Restructure Announced Within Days, PAE Leaders Named | KeepTrack Space Brief

Department of Air Force announces finalized Program Acquisition Executive structure within days, reshaping oversight of GPS, SBIRS, and Protected Tactical Satcom systems.

SpaceX's Audacious Starship

SpaceX's Audacious Starship

As the largest and most powerful rocket ever built, it's designed for full reusability and rapid launch turnaround. SpaceX claims it could carry over 100 tons to low Earth orbit at a fraction of current costs.

Space Brief 6 Nov 2024

Space Brief 6 Nov 2024

Discover the latest in satellite technology with the launch of the world's first wooden satellite, new test materials for the ISS, and significant developments in orbital space debris.

SpaceX Plans Three Launches This Week Including ISRO Rideshare | KeepTrack X Report

SpaceX Plans Three Launches This Week Including ISRO Rideshare | KeepTrack X Report

SpaceX targets three launches this week including a rideshare mission with India's ISRO into Sun-Synchronous Orbit. Starlink network continues expanding with ongoing satellite deployments.

Space Brief 20 Nov 2024

Space Brief 20 Nov 2024

Today's highlights include the U.S. military's satellite initiative facing delays, Senate inquiries into high-profile calls, and an update on Pentagon's UFO investigations. Notable mentions also cover Morocco's defense sector ambitions.

X Report 12 Nov 2025

X Report 12 Nov 2025

SpaceX breaks records with its 94th launch of the year while planning to ramp up Starship production to unprecedented levels.

Starship Flight 13 Static Fire, Florida Push, X Report 4 Jul 2026

Starship Flight 13 Static Fire, Florida Push, X Report 4 Jul 2026

Starship update July 2026: Flight 13 completed a full six-Raptor static fire as SpaceX targets its first Cape Canaveral Starship launch by year's end.