Space Brief 19 May 2025
Today's space brief covers new ultraviolet data from the Europa Clipper, challenges in managing space debris, quantum advances in satellite technology, as well as a failed Indian satellite launch and more.
STARLINK-1768 (46381)
COSPAR: 2020-062BJ | Alt Name: Starlink 1768
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
September 3, 2020
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
46381
International Designator
2020-062BJ
Decay Date
9/12/2021
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-1768
Alternative Name
Starlink 1768
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The satellite named STARLINK-1768 (OBJECT_ID: 2020-062BJ) is a Starlink communication satellite owned and manufactured by SpaceX (SPXS). It was launched on September 3, 2020, from Launch Complex 39A at the Kennedy Space Center using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has dimensions of approximately 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and spans about 9 meters. Its dry mass is 248 kilograms with a total launch mass of 260 kilograms. It features Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities (all), optical inter-satellite links (a few prototypes), solar arrays for power generation, batteries, and krypton ion thrusters as propulsion systems. The satellite has a box-shaped body with an additional pan structure.
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-L11-57
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.
Starship Flight 13 Static Fire, Florida Push, X Report 4 Jul 2026
Starship update July 2026: Flight 13 completed a full six-Raptor static fire as SpaceX targets its first Cape Canaveral Starship launch by year's end.
Space Brief 17 Jun 2025
Today's space brief covers key developments in satellite monitoring, U.K. defense contracts, and critical licensing reforms supporting national security.
Van Allen Probe A Reenters After 14 Years; NASA Designates Starliner Type A Mishap | KeepTrack Space Brief
NASA's 590 kg Van Allen Probe A reentered March 10 after 14 years studying Earth's radiation belts. Meanwhile, Boeing Starliner classified as Type A mishap after leaving astronauts stranded on ISS.
Space Brief 13 May 2025
China expands its classified satellite series, Space Force advances cloud-based ground station marketplaces, and the Pentagon grows its satellite network partner list. Highlighting new roles for sensor technology in tracking space debris.
X Report 5 Apr 2025
SpaceX secures major U.S. military contracts, Fram2 concludes historic mission, and preparations for another Starlink launch.
The Day America Sent Two Secrets to the Sky
Sixty-five years ago, America launched two very different space missions within hours of each other - one broadcast live to a fascinated nation, the other quietly reaching orbit from a fog-shrouded California launchpad while no one was watching
Starship V3 Targets April 2026 Debut, X Report 20 Mar 2026
Starship V3 targets an April 2026 debut, the ride for next-gen Starlink V3 satellites. Fleet stands at 10,062 working of 11,587 launched.