Space Brief 6 Nov 2024
Discover the latest in satellite technology with the launch of the world's first wooden satellite, new test materials for the ISS, and significant developments in orbital space debris.
STARLINK-3101 (49168)
COSPAR: 2021-082AQ | Alt Name: Starlink 3101
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
49168
International Designator
2021-082AQ
Decay Date
4/13/2025
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-3101
Alternative Name
Starlink 3101
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-3101 satellite, also known as Starlink 3101, is a communication satellite owned and operated by SPXS (SpaceX). It was launched on September 14, 2021, from AFWTR SLC4E using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and a span of 9 meters. Its equipment includes a Ku/Ka-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link, and it is powered by solar arrays and batteries. It carries krypton ion thrusters as its motor system and has a shape described as "Box + pan." The satellite's dry mass is 275 kg with a launch mass of 297 kg. It is part of the Starlink Group 2-1-38 payload, dedicated to communication purposes.
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
275
Launch Mass
297
Shape
Box + pan
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Starlink Group 2-1-38
Purpose
Communication
Mission
Communication
Manufacturer
SPXS
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Starlink
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Krypton ion thrusters
Equipment
Ku/Ka-band payload, optical inter-satellite link
Power System
Solar arrays, batteries
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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