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STARLINK-1294 (45551)
COSPAR: 2020-025W | Alt Name: Starlink 1294
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
April 22, 2020
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
45551
International Designator
2020-025W
Decay Date
3/3/2026
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-1294
Alternative Name
Starlink 1294
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-1294 satellite, also known as Starlink 1294, is operated by SpaceX (SPXS) for communication purposes and was launched on April 22, 2020, from Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy Space Center using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. This spacecraft measures approximately 0.2 meters in length with a diameter of 2.8 meters and spans about 9 meters when fully deployed. It has a dry mass of 248 kilograms and a launch mass of 260 kilograms. The satellite is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload technology, optical inter-satellite links (in prototype form), solar arrays for power generation, and batteries. Its propulsion system uses krypton ion thrusters to maintain orbit.
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-L6-21
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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