Starshine Satellite Bus
Data current as of 2026-07-20.
The Starshine bus accounts for 3 cataloged objects, of which 0 are in orbit and 0 are active. 3 have reentered. Most are built by NRL. The largest operator on this bus is NASA. The first launched in 1999, the most recent in 2001.
0
In orbit
0
Active
3
Total launched
3
Reentered
Starshine launched per year
Still in orbit Since reentered Click a year to list its satellites.
Typical specifications
Most common values across cataloged Starshine satellites.
| Manufacturer | NRL |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Research (Atmospheric density) |
| Launch mass | 39 kg |
| Dry mass | 39 kg |
| Length | 0.5 m |
| Diameter | 0.5 m |
| Span | 0.5 m |
| Shape | Sphere |
| Power | None |
| Propulsion | None |
| Equipment | 1500 mirrors, 31 laser reflectors, beacon transponder |
Top operators
Top countries
US 3
Starshine satellites
Track any of them live in KeepTrack.
| Name | NORAD | COSPAR | Owner | Launched | Orbit | Status | Track |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| STARSHINE 2 Starshine 2 | 26996 | 2001-054B | GSFC | Dec 5, 2001 | 87 min, 51.6° | Reentered | ◉ |
| STARSHINE 3 & SO-43 Starshine-OSCAR-43 | 26929 | 2001-043A | GSFC | Sep 30, 2001 | 87 min, 67.0° | Reentered | ◉ |
| STARSHINE Starshine | 25769 | 1999-030B | GSFC | May 27, 1999 | 87 min, 51.3° | Reentered | ◉ |
Frequently asked questions
How many Starshine satellites are there?
The catalog lists 3 objects built on the Starshine bus. 0 are in orbit and 3 have reentered.
How many Starshine satellites are in orbit?
0 Starshine objects are currently in orbit, of which 0 carry an active status.
Who builds the Starshine bus?
The Starshine bus is most commonly built by NRL.
When did the first Starshine satellite launch?
The first cataloged Starshine satellite launched in 1999, and the most recent in 2001.