STARLINK-1515 (46065)

COSPAR: 2020-055AQ | Alt Name: Starlink 1515

DECAYED

Image

Additional Sources

Launch Details

Launch Date

August 7, 2020

Launch Site

Cape Canaveral Space Force Station

Launch Pad

LC39A

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

46065

International Designator

2020-055AQ

Decay Date

11/29/2023

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-1515

Alternative Name

Starlink 1515

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary

The STARLINK-1515 satellite, also known as Starlink 1515, is a communication satellite operated by SpaceX (SPXS). It was launched on August 7, 2020, from the Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39A (LC39A) aboard 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. It weighs about 248 kilograms dry and had an initial launch mass of 260 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities, some prototypes also feature optical inter-satellite links for enhanced communication. The satellite uses krypton ion thrusters for propulsion and is powered by solar arrays along with batteries. Its shape is described as a box with a pan configuration.

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

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-L9-02

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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