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STARLINK-2238 (48584)
COSPAR: 2021-041AH | Alt Name: Starlink 2238
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
May 15, 2021
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
48584
International Designator
2021-041AH
Decay Date
5/1/2026
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-2238
Alternative Name
Starlink 2238
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-2238 satellite, also known as Starlink 2238, is a communication satellite manufactured by SPXS and launched on May 15, 2021, from the LC39A launch pad at AFETR 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 when fully deployed. It carries a Ku/Ka-band payload (all) and optical inter-satellite links on a few prototypes, powered by solar arrays and batteries. STARLINK-2238 weighs approximately 248 kilograms dry and had a launch mass of 260 kilograms. The satellite is equipped with krypton ion thrusters for propulsion and operates in a configuration described as "Box + pan." It achieved stable orbit on 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-L26-32
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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