Space Brief 2 Sep 2025
Today's brief covers key topics such as SpaceX's latest Starlink launch, the European Space Agency's new initiatives, and Space Force's integration of AI into its operations.
STARLINK-1870 (47156)
COSPAR: 2020-088AL | Alt Name: Starlink 1870
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
November 25, 2020
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
47156
International Designator
2020-088AL
Decay Date
4/24/2022
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-1870
Alternative Name
Starlink 1870
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
STARLINK-1870 is a communication satellite operated by SPXS (SpaceX) and part of the Starlink constellation. Launched on November 25, 2020, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Launch Complex 40 using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, it has a length of 0.2 meters, a diameter of 2.8 meters, and a span of 9 meters. The satellite weighs 260 kilograms at launch with a dry mass of 248 kilograms. It is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities along with optical inter-satellite links (in prototypes), powered by solar arrays and batteries. Its propulsion system utilizes krypton ion thrusters for orbit maintenance, and its purpose is to provide communication services as part of the Starlink mission.
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.
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-L15-35
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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