STARLINK-4518 (53550)

COSPAR: 2022-101Z | Alt Name: Starlink 4518
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-4518 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

August 19, 2022

Launch Pad

LC40

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

53550

International Designator

2022-101Z

Decay Date

2/8/2026

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-4518

Alternative Name

Starlink 4518

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
The STARLINK-4518 satellite, also known as Starlink 4518, is a communication satellite belonging to the Starlink constellation and manufactured by SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on August 19, 2022, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 40 using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, it has a dry mass of 290 kg and measures 0.2 meters in length with a diameter of 2.8 meters and spans up to 9 meters. The satellite is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities and an optical inter-satellite link for communication purposes. It uses solar arrays and batteries for power and employs krypton ion thrusters as its propulsion system.

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

290

Launch Mass

300

Shape

Box + pan

Radar Cross Section

Unknown

Visual Magnitude

Unknown

Color

Unknown

Material Composition

Unknown

Technical Details

Payload

Starlink Group 4-27-24

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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