Starlink : Satellite Specs

Starlink is a satellite-based internet service provider created by SpaceX. It plans to deploy a network of thousands of satellites in low Earth orbit to provide high-speed internet access to remote and underserved areas around the world. One of the key components of the Starlink system are the satellites themselves, which are designed and built to specific specifications to ensure optimal performance and reliability.

Each Starlink satellite is about the size of a small car, measuring about 4 meters in length, 1.2 meters in width, and 1.2 meters in height. They weigh about 227 kg. They are equipped with a solar panel that generates power for the satellite's systems and a battery that stores the power for use when the satellite is not in direct sunlight.


Rocket launching into the sky with smoke trail over water and a building in the foreground.
A spacecraft docked to the International Space Station with Earth visible in the background.

The satellites are designed to be highly maneuverable, with a propulsion system that allows them to change their orbits and position in space. They are also equipped with a laser communications system that allows them to communicate with other Starlink satellites and ground stations.

The satellites are equipped with a phased array antenna system, which is a type of antenna that uses many small antenna elements to form a beam that can be directed to a specific location. This allows the satellites to provide highly focused, high-bandwidth communications to specific areas on the ground.

A spacecraft in orbit above Earth, showing the front section with solar panels extended, against the backdrop of Earth's surface and space.

Each satellite is designed to operate in low Earth orbit, at an altitude of about 550 km. This allows the satellites to provide low-latency internet services, which means that the time it takes for data to travel from the user's device to the satellite and back is minimized.

The satellites are also designed to be highly reliable and to operate for several years in space. They are equipped with a system that allows them to detect and correct any issues that may arise, and they are also designed to withstand the harsh conditions of space.

A spacecraft or satellite in space with Earth and clouds in the background.

In conclusion, Starlink satellites are designed and built to specific specifications to ensure optimal performance and reliability. They are highly maneuverable and equipped with advanced technologies such as laser communications and phased array antenna systems, which allow them to provide highly focused, high-bandwidth communications. Additionally, they are designed to operate in low Earth orbit and to be highly reliable, making them a great solution for providing internet access to remote and underserved areas.