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STARLINK-2496 (48486)
COSPAR: 2021-040BL | Alt Name: Starlink 2496
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
May 9, 2021
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
48486
International Designator
2021-040BL
Decay Date
8/2/2024
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-2496
Alternative Name
Starlink 2496
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-2496 satellite, also known as Starlink 2496, was launched on May 9, 2021, from the Air Force Eastern Test Range (AFETR) using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle from Launch Pad LC40. It is part of the Starlink constellation owned and operated by SpaceX for communication purposes. The satellite measures approximately 0.2 meters in length with a diameter of 2.8 meters and spans 9 meters, weighing around 260 kilograms at launch and 248 kilograms dry. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload (all) and optical inter-satellite links (on prototypes), it uses solar arrays and batteries for power and is propelled by krypton ion thrusters. Its shape can be described as a box with a pan configuration. The satellite was manufactured by SpaceX and its purpose is to facilitate communication services.
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-L27-59
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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