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STARLINK-1261 (45571)
COSPAR: 2020-025AS | Alt Name: Starlink 1261
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
April 22, 2020
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
45571
International Designator
2020-025AS
Decay Date
1/12/2024
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-1261
Alternative Name
Starlink 1261
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The satellite named STARLINK-1261, also known as Starlink 1261, is a communication satellite belonging to SpaceX's (SPXS) Starlink constellation. It was launched on April 22, 2020, from the Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy Space Center in Florida using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The spacecraft measures approximately 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter, with a span of about 9 meters, which likely includes its solar arrays. It has a dry mass of 248 kilograms and was launched with an overall mass of 260 kilograms. Its equipment includes Ku/Ka-band payload communication systems and optical inter-satellite links, with propulsion provided by krypton ion thrusters. Power is supplied through solar arrays and batteries. The satellite's shape is described as a box with a pan configuration and its mission is to facilitate global communication services.
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-L6-41
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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