STARLINK-3317 (50156)

COSPAR: 2021-125A | Alt Name: Starlink 3317
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-3317 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

December 18, 2021

Launch Site

AFWTR

Launch Pad

SLC4E

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

50156

International Designator

2021-125A

Decay Date

12/31/2025

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-3317

Alternative Name

Starlink 3317

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
The STARLINK-3317 satellite, also known as Starlink 3317, was launched on December 18, 2021, from SLC4E at AFWTR using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It is part of the Starlink constellation owned and manufactured by SPXS (SpaceX). The spacecraft has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and a span of 9 meters. Its dry mass is 270 kg with a launch mass of 290 kg. It is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload for communication purposes and an optical inter-satellite link. The satellite also features Krypton ion thrusters for propulsion and solar arrays combined with batteries to provide power.

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 4-4-01

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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