STARLINK-1650 (46573)

COSPAR: 2020-070AT | Alt Name: Starlink 1650
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-1650 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

October 6, 2020

Launch Pad

LC39A

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

46573

International Designator

2020-070AT

Decay Date

6/27/2023

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-1650

Alternative Name

Starlink 1650

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
The Starlink-1650 satellite, designated 2020-070AT and cataloged under NORAD ID 46573, was launched on October 6, 2020, from the LC39A launch pad at Kennedy Space Center aboard a Falcon 9 rocket. The spacecraft has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, with a diameter of 2.8 meters and spans 9 meters when its components are extended. It is equipped with a Ku/Ka-band payload and optical inter-satellite links, featuring solar arrays and batteries for power generation. With a dry mass of 248 kg and a launch mass of 260 kg, the satellite operates in a communication mission using krypton ion thrusters as its propulsion system. Manufactured by SpaceX (SPXS), Starlink-1650 is part of the broader Starlink constellation aimed at providing global internet coverage.

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-L12-05

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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