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STARLINK-1509 (45766)
COSPAR: 2020-038AN | Alt Name: Starlink 1509
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
June 13, 2020
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
45766
International Designator
2020-038AN
Decay Date
11/24/2024
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-1509
Alternative Name
Starlink 1509
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-1509 satellite, also known as Starlink 1509, is a communication satellite operated by SPXS (SpaceX). Launched on June 13, 2020, from Launch Complex 40 at the Air Force Eastern Test Range (AFETR) using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, this spacecraft is part of SpaceX's Starlink constellation. It has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter with a span of 9 meters, indicating large solar arrays or deployable structures. The satellite has a dry mass of 248 kilograms and was launched with a total mass of 260 kilograms.
STARLINK-1509 is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities (all), optical inter-satellite links (prototypes), and uses krypton ion thrusters for stationkeeping. Its power source consists of solar arrays and batteries, ensuring continuous operation in orbit. The spacecraft has a box-like shape with an additional pan structure, likely related to its communication equipment or solar panel design. It serves the purpose of enhancing global internet connectivity as part of SpaceX's broader Starlink mission.
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-L8-51
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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