Space Brief 11 Sep 2024
A recap of notable space events including the Soyuz MS-26 launch to the ISS, Polaris Dawn's altitude achievement, and satellite tracking updates.
STARLINK-1687 (46541)
COSPAR: 2020-070K | Alt Name: Starlink 1687
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
October 6, 2020
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
46541
International Designator
2020-070K
Decay Date
3/6/2026
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-1687
Alternative Name
Starlink 1687
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-1687 satellite, also known as Starlink 1687, is a communication satellite under the Starlink constellation operated by SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on October 6, 2020, from Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy Space Center using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, it has a bus configuration with dimensions of 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter, with a span of 9 meters. The satellite has a dry mass of 248 kilograms and was launched with a total mass of 260 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities along with optical inter-satellite links (prototypes), it uses krypton ion thrusters for propulsion and solar arrays paired with batteries for power generation. Its mission is to facilitate communication services, forming part of SpaceX's broader effort in 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.
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-L12-25
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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