Space Brief 25 Mar 2025
Today's brief covers SpaceX's launch of a secret US spy satellite, national security satellite launches, and Japan's missile ambitions. Also highlighted are Estonia's AI defense upgrades and autonomous airpower in Australia.
STARLINK-1211 (45208)
COSPAR: 2020-012AG | Alt Name: Starlink 1211
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
February 17, 2020
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
45208
International Designator
2020-012AG
Decay Date
12/5/2023
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-1211
Alternative Name
Starlink 1211
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-1211 satellite, also known as Starlink 1211, is a communication satellite operated by SPXS (SpaceX). It was launched on February 17, 2020, from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 40 (LC40) aboard a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and spans 9 meters when fully deployed. Its dry mass is 248 kilograms, with an initial launch mass of 260 kilograms. It features a Ku/Ka-band payload for communication purposes and includes optical inter-satellite links (on prototypes), along with solar arrays and batteries for power generation. The satellite employs krypton ion thrusters for propulsion and has a box-like structure with additional panels.
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.
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-L4-31
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
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
Space Brief 14 Nov 2024
Today's brief covers potential shifts in Space Force's strategy, new milestones in military satellite programs, and advancements in ground systems for missile defense. We'll also highlight Rocket Lab's latest contract win and critical design reviews in drone technology.
SpaceX Launches Third GPS Satellite Reassigned From ULA | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX successfully launches GPS satellite for Space Force — third consecutive GPS mission switched from ULA. EBAD demonstrates payload release module on Falcon 9 rideshare mission.
Space Brief 22 Apr 2025
Today's brief highlights key advancements in space technology and innovative military initiatives. Featuring deep space tracking system upgrades, a push towards quantum communications in orbit, and critical radar developments.
X Report 19 Apr 2025
SpaceX faces regulatory review for Bahamian rocket landings, positions itself for a major government contract, and a new Star Wars Lego set adds to the fun!
Starlink V2: 100x Faster, 5G Direct-to-Phone for Europe | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX's Starlink V2 promises 100x data density for 5G direct-to-phone service. Deutsche Telekom targets 10 European countries by 2028.
Two-Line Element Set (TLE)
The compact data format that describes every tracked satellite orbit in just two lines of text, and how to read it
X Report 9 Nov 2024
SpaceX successfully launches a new batch of Starlink satellites, while Viasat seeks LEO capacity amid rising competition.