STARLINK-1717 (46673)

COSPAR: 2020-073D | Alt Name: Starlink 1717
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-1717 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

October 18, 2020

Launch Pad

LC39A

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

46673

International Designator

2020-073D

Decay Date

8/23/2024

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-1717

Alternative Name

Starlink 1717

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
STARLINK-1717, also known as Starlink 1717, is a communication satellite operated by SPXS (SpaceX). It was launched on October 18, 2020, from Launch Pad LC39A at the Kennedy Space Center using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite measures approximately 0.2 meters in length and has a diameter of 2.8 meters with a span of 9 meters. Its dry mass is 248 kilograms, and it weighed 260 kilograms at launch. STARLINK-1717 features a Ku/Ka-band payload (all), optical inter-satellite links (on some prototypes), solar arrays, batteries for power storage, and krypton ion thrusters as its propulsion system. The satellite's design consists of a box shape with a pan configuration and is part of SpaceX's broader Starlink constellation mission 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-L13-03

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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