STARLINK-1831 (46728)

COSPAR: 2020-073BL | Alt Name: Starlink 1831
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-1831 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

October 18, 2020

Launch Pad

LC39A

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

46728

International Designator

2020-073BL

Decay Date

4/2/2022

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-1831

Alternative Name

Starlink 1831

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
STARLINK-1831 is a communication satellite belonging to the Starlink constellation, manufactured by SpaceX (SPXS). It was launched on October 18, 2020, from Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39A using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite measures 0.2 meters in length with a diameter of 2.8 meters and has a span of 9 meters due to its solar arrays. At launch, it had a mass of 260 kg, with a dry mass of 248 kg. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload and optical inter-satellite links (prototypes), the satellite uses krypton ion thrusters for propulsion and solar arrays paired with batteries for power generation. The satellite's shape is described as box-shaped with a pan configuration.

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-L13-59

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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