Starlink 5851
Re-entered 6 May 2026Starlink 5851 (NORAD 55947, COSPAR 2023-037AK) was a US satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 6 May 2026, launched on 17 Mar 2023 on the Starlink Group 2-8 mission. It is catalogued as Starlink Group 2-8-34. It was operated by SpaceX as part of the Starlink 1.5 G2 programme. The spacecraft was built by SPXS on the Starlink bus, with a mass of 305 kg. Like most satellites in low orbits, it was gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until re-entry. Historical record from Orbital Radar's satellite archive, cross-referenced with the live satellite catalogue.
Lifecycle
Specifications
Frequently asked questions
What happened to Starlink 5851?
Starlink 5851 re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 6 May 2026, ending a mission that began with its launch in 2023. Objects in low orbits are gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until they fall back and burn up on re-entry.
When did Starlink 5851 re-enter the atmosphere?
Starlink 5851 re-entered on 6 May 2026, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
How long was Starlink 5851 operational?
Starlink 5851 was operational for roughly 3 months, from 27 Jan 2026 to 23 Apr 2026.
Who operated and built Starlink 5851?
Starlink 5851 was operated by SpaceX and built by SPXS (US).