SpaceX Wins $178.5M Space Force Contract, X Report 3 Apr 2026
SpaceX secured a $178.5M Space Force contract to launch missile-tracking satellites from 2027, backing the Missile Track Custody threat-tracking layer.
STARLINK-1048 (44753)
COSPAR: 2019-074AS | Alt Name: Starlink 1048
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
November 11, 2019
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
44753
International Designator
2019-074AS
Epoch
Sat, 04 Jul 2026 02:18:32 GMT
Apogee
Calculating...
Perigee
Calculating...
Inclination
53.04°
Right Ascension
319.32°
Eccentricity
Calculating...
Argument of Perigee
126.53°
Period
91.71 min
Mean Motion
15.70 rev/day
Latitude
Calculating...
Longitude
Calculating...
Altitude
Calculating...
Velocity
Calculating...
Polar Plot
3D Visualization
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-1048
Alternative Name
Starlink 1048
Type
Payload
Status
Partially operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 44753U 19074AS 26185.09620738 .00079975 00000-0 64653-3 0 9995
2 44753 53.0441 319.3155 0003153 126.5294 233.6014 15.70150466367202
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The satellite named STARLINK-1048 (OBJECT_ID: 2019-074AS) is a Starlink communication satellite manufactured by SPXS and owned by the same entity. It was launched on November 11, 2019, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 40 using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and a span of 9 meters. It weighs 260 kilograms at launch with a dry mass of 248 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload and optical inter-satellite links (prototypes), it utilizes solar arrays and batteries for power and employs krypton ion thrusters as its motor system. The satellite's shape is described as "Box + pan" and operates under the Starlink V1.0-L1-41 payload mission for communication purposes.
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-L1-41
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
Map
Next Pass
Azimuth Elevation Time (Local)
Start Azimuth
Max Elevation
Stop Azimuth
Time Until
Pass Duration
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
Space Brief 5 Nov 2024
Today's highlights include SpaceX's Dragon cargo mission to the ISS, the first wooden satellite launch, and updates on NASA's Voyager mission. Additionally, the Space Force's X-37B space plane showcases unique aerobraking strategies.
X Report 3 Feb 2025
SpaceX prepares for another Starlink launch from Florida, while recent Starship incident raises environmental concerns.
Space Brief 23 Mar 2025
Discover today's fascinating space events, from exceptional aurora displays to potential exomoon formations, alongside intriguing satellite insights.
Space Force Eyes 1,000 Launches by 2031, New Site Required | KeepTrack Space Brief
Space Force projects ~1,000 launches between FY2027–FY2031, averaging 200 annually. DAF study concludes new launch site is "probably" required to absorb cadence.
The Day Fiery Failure Launched NASA
Sixty-eight years ago, America's first satellite exploded on the launchpad in front of the entire world. But from the ashes of Vanguard TV-3 came the determination that would eventually win the Space Race.
Space Brief 3 Aug 2025
Today's brief covers NASA's collaboration with India for a new Earth-tracking satellite, China's expansion of its satellite internet network, and a groundbreaking cosmic shield for solar cells. Also highlighted are EchoStar's ambitious satellite order and Roscosmos' recent diplomatic moves.
Space Brief 30 Aug 2025
Today's briefing covers the latest satellite communications advancements, a secretive military launch by SpaceX, and new space defense organizational structures.