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STARLINK-2688 (48660)
COSPAR: 2021-044Y | Alt Name: Starlink 2688
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
May 26, 2021
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
48660
International Designator
2021-044Y
Decay Date
1/8/2025
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-2688
Alternative Name
Starlink 2688
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The Starlink-2688 satellite, identified by NORAD CAT ID 48660 and OBJECT ID 2021-044Y, was launched on May 26, 2021, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Launch Complex 40 aboard a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. This satellite has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and spans 9 meters. It has a dry mass of 248 kilograms and was launched with a mass of 260 kilograms. The Starlink-2688 is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload and optical inter-satellite links (prototypes), powered by solar arrays and batteries, and utilizes krypton ion thrusters for propulsion. Its shape is described as box with pan configuration. The satellite's mission is to provide communication services as part of the Starlink constellation manufactured by SpaceX.
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-L28-23
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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