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Key space events for today include potential changes in US space policy involving SpaceX, uncertainties regarding NASA's Starliner, and China's new steps in asteroid exploration.
STARLINK-3840 (52466)
COSPAR: 2022-049R | Alt Name: Starlink 3840
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
May 6, 2022
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
52466
International Designator
2022-049R
Decay Date
5/17/2025
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Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-3840
Alternative Name
Starlink 3840
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The Starlink-3840 satellite, also known as Starlink 3840, was launched on May 6, 2022, from Launch Complex 39A at the Kennedy Space Center by SpaceX using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It is owned and operated by SpaceX (SPXS) for communication purposes. The satellite has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and spans up to 9 meters with its solar arrays extended. At launch, it weighed approximately 297 kilograms and had a dry mass of 220 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload and optical inter-satellite link technology, the satellite is powered by solar arrays and batteries and uses Krypton ion thrusters for propulsion. Its shape consists of a box-like body with a panel 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.
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
220
Launch Mass
297
Shape
Box + pan
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Starlink Group 4-17-16
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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