X Report 24 Apr 2025
SpaceX continues its historic launch cadence, includes Starlink expansion and business strategies in focus.
STARLINK-5073 (55427)
COSPAR: 2023-014AN | Alt Name: Starlink 5073
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
55427
International Designator
2023-014AN
Decay Date
2/2/2026
Explore in the Catalog
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-5073
Alternative Name
Starlink 5073
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The satellite named STARLINK-5073, also known as Starlink 5073, was launched on January 31, 2023, from AFWTR SLC4E using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It is part of the Starlink constellation and is owned by SPXS (SpaceX). The satellite has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and spans 9 meters when deployed. It has a dry mass of 290 kilograms and a launch mass of 305 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload for communication and an optical inter-satellite link, it also uses krypton ion thrusters as its motor system and solar arrays along with batteries for power. Its mission is dedicated to providing communication services.
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 2-6-37
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
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
Space Brief 18 Nov 2024
Today’s Space Brief covers the deployment of a new optical sensor for the Space Force, SpaceX's recent Starlink satellite launch, and significant investment in space cargo vehicles.
X Report 16 May 2025
Today's brief highlights the launch of United Airlines' Starlink Wi-Fi on passenger flights, updates on Starship development, and SpaceX's push to position Starlink as a GPS alternative in recent FCC discussions.
Space Brief 25 Jun 2025
Today's highlights include the launch of a U.S. military satellite via SpaceX, a new French defense agreement for satellite services, and the Missile Defense Agency's successful ICBM target tracking with long-range radar.
X Report 8 Apr 2025
SpaceX announces massive contract awards, advances Starship reusability, and continues to dominate with Starlink deployments.
Space Brief 25 Aug 2024
Today's Space Brief covers NASA's decision on Starliner, SpaceX's preparations for the Polaris Dawn mission, and updates on various space activities. Also featured is an in-depth look at the Hubble Space Telescope.
Vulcan Grounding Threatens WGS-11 and OPIR Launches | KeepTrack Space Brief
ULA's Vulcan rocket grounded, imperiling Space Force WGS-11 communications satellite and Next-Gen OPIR missile warning payload. Both missions lack backup launch options.
X Report 22 Jun 2025
Key updates include the impending Falcon 9 launch for Transporter-14, insights on Starship's explosion, and a last-minute abort of the Starlink 10-23 mission.