Growing Threat of Space Junk
Over 27,000 high-speed pieces of space junk now threaten vital satellites, requiring sophisticated tracking and urgent innovation of orbital debris removal methods like harpoons and nets.
STARLINK-1498 (45782)
COSPAR: 2020-038BE | Alt Name: Starlink 1498
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
June 13, 2020
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
45782
International Designator
2020-038BE
Decay Date
12/4/2024
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-1498
Alternative Name
Starlink 1498
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
STARLINK-1498 is a communication satellite launched on June 13, 2020, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's LC40 using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle by SpaceX (SPXS). The spacecraft measures 0.2 meters in length and has a diameter of 2.8 meters with a span of 9 meters. It weighs approximately 260 kg at launch and 248 kg dry, featuring Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities and optical inter-satellite links on some prototypes. Equipped with solar arrays and batteries for power supply and Krypton ion thrusters as propulsion, the satellite is part of the Starlink constellation designed for communication purposes.
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-L8-40
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
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
Space Brief 8 Nov 2024
Today's highlights include Russia's record-setting satellite launch, insights from NASA's AWE during Hurricane Helene, and confirmation of astronaut Suni Williams' good health aboard the ISS.
X Report 1 Mar 2025
FAA greenlights Flight 8 of SpaceX's Starship while senators examine Air Force nominee's ties to the company.
Space Brief 9 May 2025
Today's briefing covers new satellite projects, military tech advancements, and insights into missile defense strategies. Discover partnerships in satellite design and exciting developments in space military technology.
X Report 4 Aug 2025
SpaceX achieves significant milestones with the launch of 28 Starlink satellites and the final landing of the LZ-1 pad, marking key moments in their ongoing mission to expand satellite connectivity.
Space Brief 15 Nov 2024
Today's Space Brief covers China's Haiyang-4 satellite launch, Intuitive Machines' Artemis infrastructure proposals, deployment of the GREMLIN sensor suite, and more.
CelesTrak.org
An in-depth look at CelesTrak, the leading non-profit provider of orbital element sets and collision assessment tools, trusted by space professionals worldwide.
X Report 3 Dec 2024
Starship developments continue to capture attention alongside Starlink's latest deployment milestones.