Space Brief 8 Jan 2025
Today's highlights include China's launch of Shijian-25 for on-orbit refueling tests, Pentagon's investment in defense technologies, and key military upgrades.
STARLINK-1614 (46124)
COSPAR: 2020-057H | Alt Name: Starlink 1614
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
August 18, 2020
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
46124
International Designator
2020-057H
Decay Date
2/7/2026
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-1614
Alternative Name
Starlink 1614
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-1614 satellite, also known as Starlink 1614, is owned by SpaceX (SPXS) and was launched on August 18, 2020, from the Air Force Eastern Test Range using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle from Launch Pad LC40. It belongs to the Starlink constellation and has a mission focused on communication services. The satellite measures 0.2 meters in length, with a diameter of 2.8 meters and a span of 9 meters. At launch, it had a mass of 260 kg and a dry mass of 248 kg. It is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload (all), optical inter-satellite links (a few prototypes), and uses krypton ion thrusters for propulsion. Power is supplied by solar arrays and batteries. The satellite's shape is described as box + pan, and it was manufactured by SpaceX.
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-L10-29
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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