Space Brief 30 Jul 2025
Today's highlights include Space Force's new satcom design contracts, advances in AI training tools, Pentagon drone policy shifts, and the first Eris launch's failure.
STARLINK-1481 (45742)
COSPAR: 2020-038N | Alt Name: Starlink 1481
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
June 13, 2020
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
45742
International Designator
2020-038N
Decay Date
8/24/2025
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-1481
Alternative Name
Starlink 1481
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
STARLINK-1481, also known as Starlink 1481, is a communication satellite belonging to SpaceX's (SPXS) Starlink constellation. It was launched on June 13, 2020, from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (AFETR) at Launch Pad LC40 using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has dimensions of approximately 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter, with a span of 9 meters due to its solar arrays or other deployable components. It carries a Ku/Ka-band payload, featuring optical inter-satellite links on some prototypes, and is equipped with krypton ion thrusters for propulsion. The spacecraft has a launch mass of 260 kilograms and a dry mass of 248 kilograms, powered by solar arrays and batteries. Its primary purpose is communication as part of the Starlink network designed to provide broadband internet services globally.
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-L8-23
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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