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STARLINK-1696 (46545)
COSPAR: 2020-070P | Alt Name: Starlink 1696
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
October 6, 2020
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
46545
International Designator
2020-070P
Decay Date
4/29/2025
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-1696
Alternative Name
Starlink 1696
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-1696 satellite, also known as Starlink 1696, is a communication satellite manufactured by SpaceX (SPXS) and operated under the Starlink constellation. It was launched on October 6, 2020, from Kennedy Space Center's Launch Complex 39A using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has dimensions of approximately 0.2 meters in length with a diameter of 2.8 meters and spans up to 9 meters when deployed. It weighs about 248 kilograms dry and had a launch mass of 260 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities, it also features optical inter-satellite links (in prototype form) for communication purposes. The satellite is powered by solar arrays and batteries and uses krypton ion thrusters for propulsion. Its mission focuses on enhancing global 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-L12-29
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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