STARLINK-1863 (47150)

COSPAR: 2020-088AE | Alt Name: Starlink 1863

DECAYED

Image

Additional Sources

Launch Details

Launch Date

November 25, 2020

Launch Site

Cape Canaveral Space Force Station

Launch Pad

LC40

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

47150

International Designator

2020-088AE

Decay Date

11/1/2025

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-1863

Alternative Name

Starlink 1863

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary

The STARLINK-1863 satellite, also known as Starlink 1863, is part of SpaceX's Starlink constellation designed for communication purposes. It was launched on November 25, 2020, from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (AFETR) Launch Complex 40 (LC40) using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and spans 9 meters with its solar arrays extended. It has a dry mass of 248 kilograms and weighed 260 kilograms at launch. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities (all satellites), it also features optical inter-satellite links (on some prototypes). Its propulsion system includes Krypton ion thrusters, and it is powered by solar arrays and batteries. The satellite's shape can be described as a box with a pan configuration. It is owned and operated by SpaceX for the purpose of enhancing global communication networks.

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

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-L15-29

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

Satellite Articles

View All Posts »

Learn more about satellites and other related topics.

Space Brief 7 May 2025

Today's briefing focuses on key developments in military space activities, technological advancements, and strategic challenges faced by the U.S. in space dominance. Notably, the Space Force is expanding its missile warning capabilities, and significant funding discussions are underway.

Space Brief 17 Aug 2025

Today's space news features major US Space Force satellite launches, regulatory changes supporting private space initiatives, and updates on SpaceX's Starship advances.

X Report 27 Jul 2025

SpaceX's rapid advancements continued this weekend with two consecutive Starlink missions and preparations for the upcoming Crew-11 launch, showcasing its efficiency and commitment to expanding satellite broadband coverage.

Space Brief 15 Jul 2025

Today's brief covers new military space funding, intriguing scientific discoveries, and defense contracts impacting global military strategies.

X Report 1 Mar 2025

FAA greenlights Flight 8 of SpaceX's Starship while senators examine Air Force nominee's ties to the company.

U.S. GSSAP Executes GEO Handoff to Track China's Shijian-29 | KeepTrack Space Brief

U.S. GSSAP satellites execute coordinated GEO maneuvers for continuous surveillance of Chinese Shijian-29 spacecraft. Handoff approach maintains coverage with zero gaps.

X Report 12 Jul 2025

SpaceX prepares for the Crew-11 astronaut mission launch, while Starlink continues to expand its satellite network in orbit.

Shotwell Details xAI Power Pledge at White House | KeepTrack X Report

SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell joined Trump at the White House to outline xAI's energy commitment, while Transporter-18 targets October 2026 launch.