STARLINK-1563 (46078)

COSPAR: 2020-055BD | Alt Name: Starlink 1563
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-1563 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

August 7, 2020

Launch Pad

LC39A

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

46078

International Designator

2020-055BD

Decay Date

4/6/2025

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-1563

Alternative Name

Starlink 1563

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
The satellite STARLINK-1563 (OBJECT_ID: 2020-055BD) is a Starlink communication satellite manufactured by SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on August 7, 2020, from Launch Complex 39A at the Kennedy Space Center using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, this spacecraft has dimensions of approximately 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and spans about 9 meters when fully deployed. It carries a Ku/Ka-band payload (all), with some prototypes featuring optical inter-satellite links. The satellite's dry mass is 248 kilograms, and it was launched with a total mass of 260 kilograms. Equipped with solar arrays and batteries for power, as well as krypton ion thrusters for propulsion, STARLINK-1563 operates in a box plus panel configuration, 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.
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-L9-36

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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