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STARLINK-1688 (46371)
COSPAR: 2020-062AY | Alt Name: Starlink 1688
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
September 3, 2020
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
46371
International Designator
2020-062AY
Decay Date
8/4/2024
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-1688
Alternative Name
Starlink 1688
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-1688 satellite, also known as Starlink 1688, is a communication satellite manufactured by SPXS and owned by SpaceX (SPXS). It was launched on September 3, 2020, from Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy Space Center using the 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. Its dry mass is 248 kilograms, with a launch mass of 260 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload (all) and optical inter-satellite links (prototypes), it uses krypton ion thrusters for propulsion and solar arrays along with batteries for power. The shape of the satellite is described as box + pan, and its mission is to provide communication services.
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-L11-22
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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