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STARLINK-2234 (48580)
COSPAR: 2021-041AD | Alt Name: Starlink 2234
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
May 15, 2021
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
48580
International Designator
2021-041AD
Epoch
Fri, 03 Jul 2026 11:53:58 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
282.22°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
104.08°
Period
94.01 min
Mean Motion
15.32 rev/day
Latitude
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Longitude
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Altitude
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Velocity
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Polar Plot
3D Visualization
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-2234
Alternative Name
Starlink 2234
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 48580U 21041AD 26184.49581505 .00000617 00000-0 31651-4 0 9995
2 48580 53.1593 282.2170 0001336 104.0829 256.0321 15.31701825283388
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The STARLINK-2234 satellite, also known as Starlink 2234, is a communication satellite operated by SPXS (SpaceX) and part of the Starlink constellation. It was launched on May 15, 2021, from Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy Space Center aboard a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length with a diameter of 2.8 meters and a span of 9 meters when deployed. It weighs 260 kilograms at launch and 248 kilograms dry, equipped with solar arrays for power generation and batteries to store energy. STARLINK-2234 is fitted with Ku/Ka-band payload systems and optical inter-satellite links (prototypes). The satellite uses krypton ion thrusters for its propulsion system. Its shape can be described as a box configuration with a pan-shaped deployment, and it was designed for stable operation in orbit beginning May 16, 2021.
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-L26-28
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
Map
Next Pass
Azimuth Elevation Time (Local)
Start Azimuth
Max Elevation
Stop Azimuth
Time Until
Pass Duration
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