X Report 21 Jul 2025
SpaceX successfully launched 24 Starlink satellites into polar orbit, enhancing global coverage. Meanwhile, NASA's Crew-11 is now in quarantine ahead of their upcoming ISS mission.
STARLINK-78 (44290)
COSPAR: 2019-029BH | Alt Name: Starlink 78
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
May 24, 2019
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
44290
International Designator
2019-029BH
Decay Date
9/16/2020
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-78
Alternative Name
Starlink 78
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-78 satellite, also known as Starlink 78, is part of SpaceX's Starlink constellation designed for communication purposes. Launched on May 24, 2019, from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (LC40) using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, it has an object identifier of 2019-029BH and is cataloged under NORAD ID 44290. The satellite features a box-shaped structure with solar arrays for power generation and carries a Ku-band payload as its primary equipment. It weighs approximately 219 kilograms when dry, with an initial launch mass of 227 kilograms. Propulsion is provided by krypton ion thrusters, and the spacecraft dimensions include a length of 0.2 meters, diameter of 2.8 meters, and span of 9 meters. The satellite's mission focuses on enhancing global communication networks as part of SpaceX's broader constellation efforts.
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
219
Launch Mass
227
Shape
Box + pan
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Starlink V0.9-56
Purpose
Communication
Mission
Communication
Manufacturer
SPXS
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Starlink
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Krypton ion thrusters
Equipment
Ku-band payload
Power System
Solar arrays, batteries
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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