STARLINK-3951 (52533)

COSPAR: 2022-051A | Alt Name: Starlink 3951
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-3951 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

May 13, 2022

Launch Site

AFWTR

Launch Pad

SLC4E

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

52533

International Designator

2022-051A

Decay Date

1/17/2025

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-3951

Alternative Name

Starlink 3951

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
The STARLINK-3951 satellite, also known as Starlink 3951, was launched on May 13, 2022, from AFWTR using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle at SLC4E. It is part of the Starlink constellation and manufactured by SPXS. The satellite measures 0.2 meters in length with a diameter of 2.8 meters and has a span of 9 meters due to its solar arrays or other deployable components. It weighs 275 kilograms dry, and had an initial launch mass of 297 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload and optical inter-satellite links for communication purposes, the satellite uses krypton ion thrusters for propulsion and solar arrays along with batteries for power supply.

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

275

Launch Mass

297

Shape

Box + pan

Radar Cross Section

Unknown

Visual Magnitude

Unknown

Color

Unknown

Material Composition

Unknown

Technical Details

Payload

Starlink Group 4-13-01

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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