STARLINK-1241 (45195)

COSPAR: 2020-012T | Alt Name: Starlink 1241

DECAYED

Image

Additional Sources

Launch Details

Launch Date

February 17, 2020

Launch Site

Cape Canaveral Space Force Station

Launch Pad

LC40

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

45195

International Designator

2020-012T

Decay Date

7/16/2023

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-1241

Alternative Name

Starlink 1241

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary

The satellite STARLINK-1241 (also known as Starlink 1241) is part of SpaceX's Starlink constellation, designed for communication purposes. It was launched on February 17, 2020, from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle from Launch Pad LC40. The satellite has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter with a span of 9 meters, indicating it likely includes deployable solar arrays or antennas. Its dry mass is 248 kilograms, while its launch mass was 260 kilograms. It is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload equipment and optical inter-satellite links on some prototypes. The satellite uses krypton ion thrusters for propulsion and relies on solar arrays and batteries for power supply. It operates in a configuration described as "Box + pan" shape, although specific details about its attitude control system (ACDS), color, or material composition are not provided.

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

Dry Mass

248

Launch Mass

260

Shape

Box + pan

Radar Cross Section

Unknown

Visual Magnitude

Unknown

Color

Unknown

Material Composition

Unknown

Technical Details

Payload

Starlink V1.0-L4-18

Purpose

Communication

Mission

Communication

Manufacturer

SPXS

Life Expectancy

Unknown

Bus

Starlink

Configuration

Unknown

Motor

Krypton ion thrusters

Equipment

Ku/Ka-band payload (all), optical inter-satellite links (a few prototypes)

Power System

Solar arrays, batteries

ADCS

Unknown

Transmitter Frequency

Unknown

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