STARLINK-2720 (48653)

COSPAR: 2021-044R | Alt Name: Starlink 2720

Image
STARLINK-2720 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

May 26, 2021

Launch Pad

LC40

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

48653

International Designator

2021-044R

Epoch

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 23:56:31 GMT

Apogee

Calculating...

Perigee

Calculating...

Inclination

53.16°

Right Ascension

292.73°

Eccentricity

Calculating...

Argument of Perigee

73.48°

Period

94.01 min

Mean Motion

15.32 rev/day

Latitude

Calculating...

Longitude

Calculating...

Altitude

Calculating...

Velocity

Calculating...

Polar Plot
3D Visualization
Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-2720

Alternative Name

Starlink 2720

Type

Payload

Status

Operational

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Latest TLEs
1 48653U 21044R   26184.99758197  .00003878  00000-0  13662-3 0  9990
2 48653  53.1587 292.7337 0000815  73.4752 286.6339 15.31709068281640

Source: Celestrak

Summary
The STARLINK-2720 satellite, also known as Starlink 2720, was launched on May 26, 2021, from the Air Force Eastern Test Range (AFETR) Launch Complex 40 using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It is part of the Starlink constellation and operated by SpaceX (SPXS). The satellite measures 0.2 meters in length, has a diameter of 2.8 meters, and spans 9 meters. It had a launch mass of 260 kilograms and a dry mass of 248 kilograms. Equipped with a Ku/Ka-band payload and optical inter-satellite links (in prototypes), it uses solar arrays and batteries for power and employs krypton ion thrusters as its propulsion system. The primary mission of STARLINK-2720 is communication, and it has a box plus pan shape.

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-L28-16

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
This tool will help you track the satellite's position and predict its upcoming passes over your location. Simply input the coordinates or click the geolocation button to get started.
Next Pass
Azimuth Elevation Time (Local)
Start Azimuth
Max Elevation
Stop Azimuth
Time Until
Pass Duration

Satellite Articles

View All Posts »

Learn more about satellites and other related topics.

X Report 8 Jan 2025

X Report 8 Jan 2025

SpaceX sets sights on new frontiers with the imminent Starlink launch and upcoming Blue Ghost moon lander mission.

€140M ESA Launcher Funding at Risk of Lapse | KeepTrack Space Brief

€140M ESA Launcher Funding at Risk of Lapse | KeepTrack Space Brief

Nearly €140 million in ESA launcher development funds faces forfeiture with no replacement mechanism. Europe's independent launch capacity under pressure as Arianespace struggles.

X Report 31 Jul 2025

X Report 31 Jul 2025

Today's highlights include the ongoing Crew-11 mission launch and Starship preparations for its upcoming test flight.

Space Brief 9 May 2025

Space Brief 9 May 2025

Today's briefing covers new satellite projects, military tech advancements, and insights into missile defense strategies. Discover partnerships in satellite design and exciting developments in space military technology.

Space Brief 22 Oct 2025

Space Brief 22 Oct 2025

Today's briefing covers space-based missile defense, AI maritime surveillance, and new governmental shifts impacting the defense sector.

Space Brief 15 May 2025

Space Brief 15 May 2025

Today's brief highlights a nuclear battery startup's funding boost, advisory board additions in the space sector, and key military updates impacting space operations.

China's iSpace Raises Record $729M for Reusable Rockets | KeepTrack Space Brief

China's iSpace Raises Record $729M for Reusable Rockets | KeepTrack Space Brief

China's iSpace secures record $729M for reusable rocket development. SpaceX launches Crew-12 and lands booster at new LZ-40 pad. Startup bets on space-based missile defense.

Space Brief 24 Sep 2025

Space Brief 24 Sep 2025

Key highlights on China's reusable rocket developments, U.S. military's Tranche 1 satellite launch, Space Force's weapons acquisition strategies, and more.