STARLINK-30038 (55696)

COSPAR: 2023-026B | Alt Name: Starlink 30038
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-30038 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

February 27, 2023

Launch Pad

LC40

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

55696

International Designator

2023-026B

Decay Date

5/12/2023

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-30038

Alternative Name

Starlink 30038

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
The satellite named STARLINK-30038, also known as Starlink 30038, is a Starlink v2 Mini model under the BUS category of Starlink V2M, manufactured by SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on February 27, 2023, from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station Launch Complex 40 using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, it stabilized in orbit on February 28, 2023. The satellite measures 0.3 meters in length with a diameter of 4.1 meters and has an operational span of 29 meters. Its dry mass is 700 kilograms, and its launch mass was 730 kilograms. It carries a Ku/Ka/E-band payload along with an optical inter-satellite link for communication purposes. The satellite uses solar arrays and batteries for power generation and employs Argon ion thrusters as propulsion systems.

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

0.3

Diameter

4.1

Span

29

Dry Mass

700

Launch Mass

730

Shape

Box + pan

Radar Cross Section

Unknown

Visual Magnitude

Unknown

Color

Unknown

Material Composition

Unknown

Technical Details

Payload

Starlink Group 6-1-02

Purpose

Communication

Mission

Communication

Manufacturer

SPXS

Life Expectancy

Unknown

Bus

Starlink V2M

Configuration

Starlink v2 Mini

Motor

Argon ion thrusters

Equipment

Ku/Ka/E-band payload, optical inter-satellite link

Power System

Solar arrays, batteries

ADCS

Unknown

Transmitter Frequency

Unknown

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