STARLINK-2244 (48588)

COSPAR: 2021-041AM | Alt Name: Starlink 2244
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-2244 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

May 15, 2021

Launch Pad

LC39A

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

48588

International Designator

2021-041AM

Decay Date

1/5/2025

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-2244

Alternative Name

Starlink 2244

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
The satellite named STARLINK-2244 (also known as Starlink 2244) is a communication spacecraft owned and operated by SPXS (SpaceX). Launched on May 15, 2021, from Launch Pad LC39A at the Kennedy Space Center using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, this satellite is part of SpaceX's Starlink constellation. With dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and an operational span of 9 meters, STARLINK-2244 has a dry mass of 248 kilograms and was launched with a total mass of 260 kilograms. The satellite is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities, optical inter-satellite links (for prototypes), solar arrays for power generation, and Krypton ion thrusters for propulsion. Its primary mission is to provide communication services through its advanced equipment and design features.

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-L26-36

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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