STARLINK-1539 (46072)

COSPAR: 2020-055AX | Alt Name: Starlink 1539
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-1539 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

August 7, 2020

Launch Pad

LC39A

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

46072

International Designator

2020-055AX

Decay Date

6/26/2024

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-1539

Alternative Name

Starlink 1539

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
The STARLINK-1539 satellite, also known as Starlink 1539, is a communication satellite manufactured by SpaceX (SPXS). It was launched on August 7, 2020, from Launch Pad LC39A at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has a dry mass of 248 kilograms and a launch mass of 260 kilograms. Its dimensions include a length of 0.2 meters, diameter of 2.8 meters, and span of 9 meters. It is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities (all) and optical inter-satellite links (for prototypes). Power for the satellite comes from solar arrays and batteries. The mission of STARLINK-1539 is to facilitate communication through its Starlink V1.0-L9-17 payload, utilizing Krypton ion thrusters as motors for maneuvering in orbit.

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-L9-17

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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