STARLINK-1203 (45202)

COSPAR: 2020-012AA | Alt Name: Starlink 1203
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-1203 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

February 17, 2020

Launch Pad

LC40

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

45202

International Designator

2020-012AA

Decay Date

4/20/2023

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-1203

Alternative Name

Starlink 1203

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
The STARLINK-1203 satellite, also known as Starlink 1203, is a communication spacecraft operated by SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on February 17, 2020, from Launch Complex 40 at the Air Force Eastern Test Range using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, this satellite has a dry mass of 248 kilograms and was launched with a total mass of 260 kilograms. It measures approximately 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and spans about 9 meters when its components are extended. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capability and optical inter-satellite links (on prototypes), it uses solar arrays and batteries for power generation. The satellite is powered by Krypton ion thrusters for maneuvering and is designed to support communication purposes as part of the Starlink V1.0-L4-25 constellation.

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

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-L4-25

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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