STARLINK-3258 (50206)

COSPAR: 2021-125BC | Alt Name: Starlink 3258

DECAYED

Image

Additional Sources

Launch Details

Launch Date

December 18, 2021

Launch Site

AFWTR

Launch Pad

SLC4E

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

50206

International Designator

2021-125BC

Decay Date

3/23/2026

Explore in the Catalog

Starlink bus SpaceX Starlink constellation United States satellites Payloads

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-3258

Alternative Name

Starlink 3258

Type

Payload

Status

Operational

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary

The Starlink-3258 satellite, also known as Starlink 3258, is owned and operated by SpaceX (SPXS). It was launched on December 18, 2021, from the Vandenberg Space Force Base using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The spacecraft measures 0.2 meters in length with a diameter of 2.8 meters and has a span of 9 meters. Its dry mass is 270 kilograms, while its launch mass was 290 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload and optical inter-satellite link technology, the satellite uses solar arrays and batteries for power generation and krypton ion thrusters as its propulsion system. The purpose of this communication satellite is to contribute to SpaceX’s Starlink constellation, enhancing global internet connectivity.

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

270

Launch Mass

290

Shape

Box + pan

Radar Cross Section

Unknown

Visual Magnitude

Unknown

Color

Unknown

Material Composition

Unknown

Technical Details

Payload

Starlink Group 4-4-51

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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