Space Brief 10 Apr 2025
Key topics today include the US Space Force's new international strategy, China's partnership with Pakistan for astronaut training, and conservation concerns over SpaceX landing proposals.
STARLINK-1444 (45661)
COSPAR: 2020-035E | Alt Name: Starlink 1444
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
June 4, 2020
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
45661
International Designator
2020-035E
Decay Date
4/19/2025
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-1444
Alternative Name
Starlink 1444
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The satellite named STARLINK-1444 (Alt Name: Starlink 1444), with NORAD ID 45661 and OBJECT_ID 2020-035E, is part of the Starlink constellation designed for communication purposes. Launched on June 4, 2020, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Launch Complex 40 (LC40) aboard a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, it has dimensions of approximately 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter with a span of 9 meters. The satellite weighs 260 kg at launch and 248 kg dry mass. It is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities, includes optical inter-satellite links (prototypes), and uses solar arrays along with batteries for power supply. STARLINK-1444 operates using krypton ion thrusters as its propulsion system and has a box plus pan shape design. The satellite was manufactured by SpaceX and is owned by the same entity, serving to enhance global communication networks through its orbital operations.
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-L7-05
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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