STARLINK-1617 (46350)

COSPAR: 2020-062AB | Alt Name: Starlink 1617
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-1617 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

September 3, 2020

Launch Pad

LC39A

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

46350

International Designator

2020-062AB

Decay Date

6/7/2024

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-1617

Alternative Name

Starlink 1617

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
STARLINK-1617, also known as Starlink 1617, is a communication satellite belonging to SpaceX's Starlink constellation. It was launched on September 3, 2020, from the Kennedy Space Center (LC39A) 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. Its dry mass is 248 kilograms with a launch mass of 260 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload and optical inter-satellite links (prototypes), the satellite uses krypton ion thrusters for maneuvering and solar arrays along with batteries for power. The mission of STARLINK-1617 is to facilitate communication services as part of SpaceX's broader goal of providing global internet coverage through its constellation of satellites.

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-L11-06

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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