STARLINK-6068 (56798)

COSPAR: 2023-078AH | Alt Name: Starlink 6068
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-6068 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

May 31, 2023

Launch Site

AFWTR

Launch Pad

SLC4E

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

56798

International Designator

2023-078AH

Decay Date

5/14/2025

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-6068

Alternative Name

Starlink 6068

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
The STARLINK-6068 satellite, also known as Starlink 6068, is part of the Starlink constellation owned and operated by SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on May 31, 2023, from AFWTR SLC4E using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, this communication satellite has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and spans 9 meters when fully deployed. It weighs approximately 305 kilograms at launch and carries a Ku/Ka-band payload along with an optical inter-satellite link for data transmission. The satellite is equipped with krypton ion thrusters for propulsion and solar arrays paired with batteries to generate power. Its shape resembles a box with a pan configuration, designed for efficient operation in low Earth orbit as part of SpaceX's global communication network.

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 2-10-32

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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