Space Brief 14 Jun 2025
Today's space news roundup highlights a significant defense bill passed for the Space Force, a delay in the Axiom-4 mission due to ISS issues, and major satellite deals with NATO.
STARLINK-1546 (46346)
COSPAR: 2020-062X | Alt Name: Starlink 1546
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
September 3, 2020
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
46346
International Designator
2020-062X
Decay Date
6/10/2023
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-1546
Alternative Name
Starlink 1546
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-1546 satellite, also known as Starlink 1546, is part of the Starlink constellation and was launched on September 3, 2020, from Launch Complex 39A (LC39A) at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and a span of 9 meters. It weighs 260 kilograms at launch and 248 kilograms without fuel. Its equipment includes Ku/Ka-band payload and optical inter-satellite links on a few prototypes, powered by solar arrays and batteries. The satellite is equipped with Krypton ion thrusters for propulsion. It serves communication purposes and was manufactured by SpaceX (SPXS).
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-L11-01
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
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
SpaceX Launches 500th Starlink Satellite of 2026, Microsoft Partnership Announced | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX launches 500th Starlink satellite of 2026 on 540th reused booster flight. Microsoft partners with Starlink for rural internet expansion. NASA reveals first ISS medical evacuation details.
Space Brief 20 Aug 2024
Polaris Dawn's upcoming commercial spacewalk, successful lunar orbit by Chinese spacecraft, and more space news including SpaceX's Starlink mission, RFA's static-fire failure, and advances in satellite technology.
Space Brief 9 Mar 2025
Today's highlights include delayed satellite launches, SpaceX's Florida Starship expansion, a historic mission by Europe's Ariane 6, and NASA's twin missions to explore the ends of the Earth and the universe.
SpaceX Launches NROL-105 Spy Satellite in First 2026 National Security Mission | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX launches NROL-105 spy satellite from Vandenberg — first national security mission of 2026. Crew-11 astronauts arrive in Houston after historic first-ever ISS medical evacuation.
Apogee and Perigee
Understanding the high and low points of every orbit - from the International Space Station's careful dance with Earth's atmosphere to the extreme ellipses that take satellites to the edge of space and back.
SpaceX Wins $57M Golden Dome Crosslink Deal, X Report 24 Apr 2026
SpaceX military contract: $57M to demo Link-182 waveform satellite crosslinks for Golden Dome missile defense. FCC denies its spectrum bid.
Geosynchronous Orbit (GEO)
Understanding the unique orbital sweet spot that keeps satellites perfectly positioned above Earth