Space Brief 12 Nov 2024
Latest updates include China's Lijian-1 launching 15 satellites, a fiery Starlink reentry, SpaceX's milestone Falcon 9 booster landing, and China's support for its commercial space sector.
STARLINK-1561 (46056)
COSPAR: 2020-055AF | Alt Name: Starlink 1561
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
August 7, 2020
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
46056
International Designator
2020-055AF
Decay Date
11/14/2023
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-1561
Alternative Name
Starlink 1561
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-1561 satellite, also known as Starlink 1561, is owned and operated by SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on August 7, 2020, from LC39A at AFETR using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, it is part of the Starlink constellation designed for communication purposes. The satellite has dimensions including a length of 0.2 meters, diameter of 2.8 meters, and span of 9 meters, with a dry mass of 248 kilograms and a launch mass of 260 kilograms. It is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload (all) and optical inter-satellite links for a few prototypes. The satellite uses solar arrays and batteries for power and employs Krypton ion thrusters as its motor. Its shape is described as Box + pan, and it is part of the Starlink V1.0-L9-34 payload series.
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-L9-34
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.
X Report 19 Nov 2024
Starship Flight 6 approaches with a daring booster catch, while SpaceX ramps up satellite launches and navigates regulatory challenges.
Space Brief 23 Sep 2025
Explore the latest in satellite launches and space reconnaissance as Lockheed Martin, SpaceX, and military entities push forward with innovative missions. A new propulsion clean room marks growth in satellite tech.
Crew-11 Emergency Evacuation Raises Space Rescue Alarm | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX Crew-11 made an emergency return from the ISS on Jan. 15 after a medical crisis, spotlighting gaps in space rescue infrastructure.
Space Brief 17 Aug 2025
Today's space news features major US Space Force satellite launches, regulatory changes supporting private space initiatives, and updates on SpaceX's Starship advances.
X Report 27 Sep 2025
SpaceX continues to make strides in both its Starship program and Starlink satellite deployments, with a successful launch of 24 Starlink satellites and preparations for upcoming missions.
X Report 5 Nov 2025
Today's key development highlights SpaceX's upcoming launch of 29 Starlink satellites from Cape Canaveral, marking the start of an active month for the satellite constellation.
Space Beyond Books SpaceX Rideshare for Memorial Cubesat Mission | KeepTrack X Report
Space Beyond secures SpaceX rideshare launch slot for October 2027 memorial cubesat mission. Starlink constellation at 11,009 total satellites launched with 9,551 currently on orbit.