2nd Starlink Debris Event in 3 Months Raises Alarm | KeepTrack X Report
A second Starlink satellite has generated on-orbit debris in just over 3 months, threatening SpaceX's 10,151-satellite working constellation.
STARLINK-6103 (56114)
COSPAR: 2023-046X | Alt Name: Starlink 6103
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
March 29, 2023
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
56114
International Designator
2023-046X
Decay Date
1/22/2025
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Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-6103
Alternative Name
Starlink 6103
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
STARLINK-6103 is a communication satellite from the Starlink series manufactured by SpaceX (SPXS). It was launched on March 29, 2023, using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle from Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The satellite has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter with a span of 9 meters. It weighs 305 kilograms at launch and 290 kilograms dry. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities and optical inter-satellite link, it uses solar arrays and batteries for power. The propulsion system includes Krypton ion thrusters. This satellite is part of the Starlink Group 5-10-22 mission aimed at enhancing global 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 5-10-22
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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