STARLINK-3237 (49726)

COSPAR: 2021-115C | Alt Name: Starlink 3237
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-3237 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

December 2, 2021

Launch Pad

LC40

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

49726

International Designator

2021-115C

Decay Date

9/14/2024

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-3237

Alternative Name

Starlink 3237

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
STARLINK-3237 is a communication satellite from SpaceX, designated OBJECT_ID 2021-115C and NORAD_CAT_ID 49726. Launched on December 2, 2021, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's LC40 using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, it became stable the following day. The satellite measures 0.2 meters in length with a diameter of 2.8 meters and has a span of 9 meters. It carries a Ku/Ka-band payload along with an optical inter-satellite link for communication purposes. Equipped with krypton ion thrusters and solar arrays for power, it weighs 270 kilograms when dry and had a launch mass of 290 kilograms. The satellite's shape is described as box-shaped with a pan element.

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

270

Launch Mass

290

Shape

Box + pan

Radar Cross Section

Unknown

Visual Magnitude

Unknown

Color

Unknown

Material Composition

Unknown

Technical Details

Payload

Starlink Group 4-3-3

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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