Space Brief 27 Oct 2024
Today's brief covers SpaceX's latest Starlink launch, updates on Crew-8's return, and preparations for the SLS Artemis II mission.
STARLINK-5461 (55672)
COSPAR: 2023-021AW | Alt Name: Starlink 5461
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
55672
International Designator
2023-021AW
Decay Date
8/21/2024
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Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-5461
Alternative Name
Starlink 5461
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-5461 satellite, also known as Starlink 5461, is a communication satellite launched on February 17, 2023, from Space Launch Complex 4E at AFWTR using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It measures 0.2 meters in length and has a diameter of 2.8 meters with a span of 9 meters. The spacecraft has a dry mass of 290 kg and a launch mass of 305 kg. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload and optical inter-satellite link, it utilizes krypton ion thrusters for propulsion and solar arrays along with batteries for power supply. Manufactured by SPXS, the satellite is part of the Starlink Group 2-5-45 constellation and serves a communication mission under the ownership of SpaceX (SPXS).
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 2-5-45
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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