STARLINK-2649 (48680)

COSPAR: 2021-044AU | Alt Name: Starlink 2649

DECAYED

Image

Additional Sources

Launch Details

Launch Date

May 26, 2021

Launch Site

Cape Canaveral Space Force Station

Launch Pad

LC40

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

48680

International Designator

2021-044AU

Decay Date

4/18/2025

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-2649

Alternative Name

Starlink 2649

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary

The STARLINK-2649 satellite, also known as Starlink 2649, is a communication spacecraft operated by SPXS (SpaceX). It was launched on May 26, 2021, from the Air Force Eastern Test Range (AFETR) using the Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter with a span of 9 meters. Its dry mass is 248 kg, and its launch mass was 260 kg. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload systems and optical inter-satellite links (prototypes), the satellite uses solar arrays and batteries for power and employs krypton ion thrusters for propulsion. The structure of STARLINK-2649 is described as a box with a pan shape, contributing to its mission in providing communication services.

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

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-L28-43

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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