STARLINK-1918 (46768)

COSPAR: 2020-074AF | Alt Name: Starlink 1918
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-1918 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

October 24, 2020

Launch Pad

LC40

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

46768

International Designator

2020-074AF

Decay Date

1/8/2025

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-1918

Alternative Name

Starlink 1918

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
The STARLINK-1918 satellite, also known as Starlink 1918, is a communication satellite owned and operated by SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on October 24, 2020, from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 40 using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, this spacecraft measures approximately 0.2 meters in length with a diameter of 2.8 meters and a span of 9 meters when fully deployed. It has a dry mass of 248 kilograms and was launched with a total mass of 260 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities, some prototypes also include optical inter-satellite links for communication purposes. The satellite's propulsion system utilizes krypton ion thrusters, while its power supply consists of solar arrays and batteries.

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-L14-31

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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