STARLINK-5616 (55417)

COSPAR: 2023-014AC | Alt Name: Starlink 5616
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-5616 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

January 31, 2023

Launch Site

AFWTR

Launch Pad

SLC4E

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

55417

International Designator

2023-014AC

Decay Date

4/23/2025

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-5616

Alternative Name

Starlink 5616

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
STARLINK-5616 is a Starlink satellite owned by SpaceX (SPXS), designated under the Object ID 2023-014AC and NORAD Catalog ID 55417. Launched on January 31, 2023, from Vandenberg Space Force Base’s SLC4E launch pad using a Falcon 9 rocket, this satellite serves communication purposes as part of the Starlink Group 2-6-27 constellation. It has dimensions measuring 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter with a span of 9 meters, featuring a box shape with panels. The dry mass is approximately 290 kg while its launch mass was 305 kg. Equipped with solar arrays and batteries for power generation, the satellite includes Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities along with an optical inter-satellite link and uses krypton ion thrusters as motors.

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 2-6-27

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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