Space Brief 13 Dec 2025
Today's briefing covers a new naming system by Space Force, China's space advances, drone defense at Cape Canaveral, and more military updates impacting space operations.
STARLINK-1512 (45785)
COSPAR: 2020-038BH | Alt Name: Starlink 1512
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
June 13, 2020
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
45785
International Designator
2020-038BH
Decay Date
12/10/2024
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-1512
Alternative Name
Starlink 1512
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-1512 satellite, also known as Starlink 1512, is part of SpaceX's Starlink constellation and was launched on June 13, 2020, from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 40 aboard a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and spans 9 meters when deployed. The satellite weighs 260 kilograms at launch with a dry mass of 248 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload (all) and optical inter-satellite links (prototypes), it is designed for communication purposes using solar arrays and batteries for power, and krypton ion thrusters for propulsion. The satellite's shape consists of a box with an additional pan structure.
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-L8-54
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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