Space Brief 25 Sep 2025
Discover the latest developments in space defense, innovative satellite technologies, nuclear advancements in space travel, and strategic military updates.
STARLINK-1615 (46166)
COSPAR: 2020-057BB | Alt Name: Starlink 1615
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
August 18, 2020
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
46166
International Designator
2020-057BB
Decay Date
7/4/2024
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-1615
Alternative Name
Starlink 1615
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-1615 satellite, also known as Starlink 1615, is part of SpaceX's Starlink constellation and was launched on August 18, 2020, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It measures 0.2 meters in length with a diameter of 2.8 meters and a span of 9 meters. The satellite has a dry mass of 248 kilograms and a launch mass of 260 kilograms, indicating it carries additional fuel for maneuvering. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities and optical inter-satellite links, it serves communication purposes utilizing solar arrays and batteries for power. It is stabilized through krypton ion thrusters and has a box shape with a pan configuration. The satellite is owned by SpaceX (SPXS) and is part of the Starlink V1.0-L10-30 payload series designed to provide global broadband internet coverage.
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-L10-30
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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