STARLINK-3288 (50160)

COSPAR: 2021-125E | Alt Name: Starlink 3288
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-3288 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

50160

International Designator

2021-125E

Decay Date

12/21/2024

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-3288

Alternative Name

Starlink 3288

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
The STARLINK-3288 satellite, also known as Starlink 3288, is part of the Starlink constellation operated by SpaceX (SPXS). It was launched on December 18, 2021, from AFWTR's SLC4E launch pad using a Falcon 9 rocket. The satellite has dimensions of approximately 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter with a span of 9 meters. Its dry mass is 270 kilograms, and it was launched with a total mass of 290 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link, the satellite utilizes solar arrays and batteries for power. The spacecraft is designed for communication purposes and employs krypton ion thrusters for propulsion. Its shape is characterized as a box with a pan configuration.

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 4-4-05

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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