STARLINK-5080 (55437)

COSPAR: 2023-014AY | Alt Name: Starlink 5080

DECAYED

Image

Additional Sources

Launch Details

Launch Date

January 31, 2023

Launch Site

AFWTR

Launch Pad

SLC4E

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

55437

International Designator

2023-014AY

Decay Date

10/23/2024

Explore in the Catalog

Starlink bus SpaceX Starlink constellation United States satellites Payloads

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-5080

Alternative Name

Starlink 5080

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary

The Starlink-5080 satellite, also known as Starlink 5080, was launched on January 31, 2023, from AFWTR SLC4E using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It is part of the Starlink constellation and serves a communication mission for SpaceX (SPXS). The spacecraft has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and spans 9 meters with solar arrays that provide power alongside batteries. It weighs 305 kilograms at launch and carries a dry mass of 290 kilograms. Its equipment includes a Ku/Ka-band payload for communication and optical inter-satellite link capabilities, supported by Krypton ion thrusters as its motor system. The shape is described as "Box + pan," indicating it likely has a box-like body with solar panels extending outward.

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

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 2-6-47

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.

The Afternoon a Blurry Smudge Turned Pluto Into a Double Planet

On 22 June 1978, an astronomer at the U.S. Naval Observatory looked at photographic plates that had been stamped 'image defective' and noticed a small bump on the side of Pluto. The bump was a moon, and finding it finally let astronomers weigh a planet that had fooled them for half a century.

Space Brief 25 Mar 2025

Today's brief covers SpaceX's launch of a secret US spy satellite, national security satellite launches, and Japan's missile ambitions. Also highlighted are Estonia's AI defense upgrades and autonomous airpower in Australia.

Space Brief 23 Jan 2025

Today's briefing covers the U.S. Space Force's substantial investments in commercial satellite services, a strategic military shift, Chinese space station upgrades, and NASA's policy changes.

Space Brief 19 Apr 2025

Today's brief covers SpaceX's potential government contract, the future of US Space Command headquarters, an auction record for Neil Armstrong's watch, and the volcanic history of Mars.

X Report 23 Jun 2025

SpaceX gears up for the Transporter 14 rideshare mission, while recent Starship setbacks have not deterred plans for Falcon 9 launches.

Space Brief 11 Jan 2025

Today's brief covers SpaceX's NROL-153 launch, US Space Force activities in Greenland, Starlink's record-breaking flight, and a OneWeb satellite glitch. Plus, our Satellite Spotlight shines on Duchifat-1.

Space Brief 28 Nov 2024

Today's briefing covers China's announcement of the Beidou system upgrade, launch updates for Vega C, challenges to global GPS reliability, and delays in the VERITAS Venus mission.

Mega-Constellations Are Set to Flood Earth's Orbit

We forecast how many satellites could be in orbit by 2030 and what capabilities we can expect.