STARLINK-1438 (45715)

COSPAR: 2020-035BL | Alt Name: Starlink 1438
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-1438 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

June 4, 2020

Launch Pad

LC40

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

45715

International Designator

2020-035BL

Decay Date

6/27/2021

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-1438

Alternative Name

Starlink 1438

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
The STARLINK-1438 satellite, also known as Starlink 1438, is a communication satellite operated by SPXS and launched on June 4, 2020, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Launch Complex 40 using the Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and spans 9 meters, with a dry mass of 248 kilograms and a launch mass of 260 kilograms. The satellite is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities and optical inter-satellite links (prototypes), powered by solar arrays and batteries, and employs krypton ion thrusters for propulsion. Its shape is described as box + pan configuration, and it serves communication purposes within the Starlink 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-L7-59 (U)

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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