The Day Space Became Crowded
Eight years ago, a single Indian rocket launched 104 satellites into orbit, marking a pivotal moment when space tracking professionals realized the dawn of a new, congested era in orbital operations
STARLINK-5229 (54171)
COSPAR: 2022-141Q | Alt Name: Starlink 5229
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
54171
International Designator
2022-141Q
Decay Date
5/16/2025
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Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-5229
Alternative Name
Starlink 5229
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-5229 satellite, also known as Starlink 5229, is part of SpaceX's Starlink constellation and was launched on October 28, 2022, from Space Launch Complex 4E (SLC4E) at Vandenberg Air Force Base using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It has dimensions of approximately 0.2 meters in length with a diameter of 2.8 meters and a span of 9 meters, indicating the deployment of solar arrays or antennas. The satellite weighs about 305 kilograms at launch and 290 kilograms dry. Its primary mission is communication, equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload and optical inter-satellite link technology. It uses krypton ion thrusters for propulsion and solar arrays combined with batteries for power generation.
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
290
Launch Mass
305
Shape
Box + pan
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Starlink Group 4-31-15
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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