FCC Shuts SpaceX Out of Key D2D Spectrum, X Report 25 Apr 2026
FCC dismisses SpaceX spectrum challenges, blocking key D2D frequencies. A $57M Golden Dome crosslink demo and software group seat soften the blow.
STARLINK-1596 (46141)
COSPAR: 2020-057AA | Alt Name: Starlink 1596
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
August 18, 2020
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
46141
International Designator
2020-057AA
Epoch
Fri, 03 Jul 2026 19:22:58 GMT
Apogee
Calculating...
Perigee
Calculating...
Inclination
53.03°
Right Ascension
29.79°
Eccentricity
Calculating...
Argument of Perigee
152.08°
Period
92.03 min
Mean Motion
15.65 rev/day
Latitude
Calculating...
Longitude
Calculating...
Altitude
Calculating...
Velocity
Calculating...
Polar Plot
3D Visualization
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-1596
Alternative Name
Starlink 1596
Type
Payload
Status
Partially operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 46141U 20057AA 26184.80761978 .00099170 00000-0 99832-3 0 9997
2 46141 53.0339 29.7927 0003311 152.0765 208.0428 15.64649373325339
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-1596 is a communication satellite, part of the Starlink constellation operated by SpaceX (SPXS). It was launched on August 18, 2020, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Launch Complex 40 using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and spans 9 meters when fully deployed. It weighs 260 kilograms at launch with a dry mass of 248 kilograms. STARLINK-1596 is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities (all), along with optical inter-satellite links on some prototypes. The satellite uses solar arrays and batteries for power supply, and it utilizes Krypton ion thrusters as its propulsion system. Its primary mission is 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.
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-L10-12
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
Map
Next Pass
Azimuth Elevation Time (Local)
Start Azimuth
Max Elevation
Stop Azimuth
Time Until
Pass Duration
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
X Report 21 Apr 2025
SpaceX launches its 32nd cargo mission to the ISS, and NRO marks a milestone with over 200 satellites deployed.
X Report 5 Jan 2025
SpaceX prepares for the next Starship test flight with significant vehicle upgrades, launches UAE's Thuraya-4 satellite, and reflects on a record-breaking 2024 while planning for a promising 2025.
China's Long March 10C Nails First Booster Recovery | KeepTrack Space Brief
China successfully recovered a Long March 10C first stage booster, positioning the methalox rocket as its primary commercial launcher. Reusable boosters reshape Beijing's LEO constellation strategy.
Space Brief 25 May 2025
Today's brief covers crucial developments in satellite technology and operations, including new Starlink launches, groundbreaking satellite data on flood waves, and pivotal changes in South African telecom policy driven by Starlink.
Space Brief 13 Feb 2025
Today's brief covers significant advancements in space satellite launches, military spending impacts on space, and notable developments from the Space Force and SpaceX.
X Report 17 Mar 2025
SpaceX's Crew-10 mission safely docks with the ISS, setting up for a crew rotation. Starlink continues its global expansion with additional satellite deployments.
Space Brief 6 Nov 2024
Discover the latest in satellite technology with the launch of the world's first wooden satellite, new test materials for the ISS, and significant developments in orbital space debris.