X Report 30 Dec 2024
SpaceX wraps up the year with significant launches, including a record-setting Astranis deployment and Starlink missions signaling the year's end.
STARLINK-2256 (48598)
COSPAR: 2021-041AX | Alt Name: Starlink 2256
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
May 15, 2021
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
48598
International Designator
2021-041AX
Decay Date
5/4/2024
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-2256
Alternative Name
Starlink 2256
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-2256 satellite, also known as Starlink 2256 and identified by NORAD CAT ID 48598, is a communication satellite belonging to the Starlink constellation manufactured by SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on May 15, 2021, from Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy Space Center using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, it stabilized in orbit the following day. The satellite has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and a span of 9 meters. It carries a Ku/Ka-band payload and features optical inter-satellite links as part of a few prototypes. Equipped with krypton ion thrusters for propulsion and solar arrays combined with batteries for power supply, the satellite weighs approximately 260 kilograms at launch and has a dry mass of 248 kilograms.
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-L26-46
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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