Space Brief 24 Dec 2025
Today's highlights include the successes and setbacks in recent rocket launches, a notable satellite anomaly, and a significant expansion announcement from ESA.
STARLINK-2696 (48484)
COSPAR: 2021-040BJ | Alt Name: Starlink 2696
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
May 9, 2021
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
48484
International Designator
2021-040BJ
Decay Date
10/25/2025
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-2696
Alternative Name
Starlink 2696
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
STARLINK-2696 is a communication satellite launched on May 9, 2021, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Launch Complex 40 using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It belongs to the Starlink constellation and was manufactured by SpaceX (SPXS). The spacecraft has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and spans 9 meters. Its dry mass is 248 kilograms, with a launch mass of 260 kilograms. STARLINK-2696 is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload (all), optical inter-satellite links (a few prototypes), krypton ion thrusters for propulsion, solar arrays and batteries for power, and has a box-shaped body with a pan configuration. The satellite's purpose is communication.
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.
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-L27-57
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
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
X Report 2 Nov 2025
SpaceX successfully completed its 100th Starlink mission of the year and launched the 'Haven Demo' private space station along with 17 other satellites. The company also made strides in lunar lander development for Artemis III.
Space Brief 14 Dec 2024
Today’s Space Brief covers significant developments such as SpaceX’s latest Starlink launch, the US Space Force testing modular satellite technology, and key long-range missile tests by the Pentagon.
Space Brief 15 Nov 2024
Today's Space Brief covers China's Haiyang-4 satellite launch, Intuitive Machines' Artemis infrastructure proposals, deployment of the GREMLIN sensor suite, and more.
Space Brief 30 Apr 2025
Today's briefing covers a significant hypersonic missile launch by the U.S. Army, the declassification of spy satellite photos aiding demining efforts, and the deployment of cutting-edge research payloads to the ISS.
X Report 9 Sep 2025
Important updates include SpaceX's $19 billion spectrum deal with EchoStar, a successful super heavy booster test, and recent setbacks in launching due to poor weather.
ULA Launches 29 Amazon Kuiper Satellites; Falcon Heavy Returns | KeepTrack Space Brief
ULA's Atlas V deployed 29 Amazon Kuiper LEO satellites on April 27. Falcon Heavy returns this week with ViaSat-3 F3. Six orbital launches scheduled across three continents.
Space Brief 4 Dec 2024
Today's brief covers significant advancements in materials technology for space applications, a U.S. Navy contract for rocket production facilities, and NATO's upcoming classified cloud system.