Space Brief 19 May 2025
Today's space brief covers new ultraviolet data from the Europa Clipper, challenges in managing space debris, quantum advances in satellite technology, as well as a failed Indian satellite launch and more.
STARLINK-5203 (54104)
COSPAR: 2022-136BF | Alt Name: Starlink 5203
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
October 20, 2022
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
54104
International Designator
2022-136BF
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 19:20:31 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
61.99°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
87.08°
Period
94.01 min
Mean Motion
15.32 rev/day
Latitude
Calculating...
Longitude
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Altitude
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Velocity
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Polar Plot
3D Visualization
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Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-5203
Alternative Name
Starlink 5203
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 54104U 22136BF 26200.80591691 .00000204 00000+0 18348-4 0 9990
2 54104 53.1614 61.9863 0001269 87.0763 273.0384 15.31698805207471
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-5203 is a communication satellite operated by SPXS and part of the Starlink Group 4-36-54 constellation. Launched on October 20, 2022, from LC40 at AFETR using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, this satellite has a box-shaped design with solar arrays for power generation. It measures 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter, with a span of 9 meters due to its solar panels. The dry mass is 290 kilograms, while the launch mass was 305 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload and optical inter-satellite link technology, it uses Krypton ion thrusters for propulsion. Its primary mission is communication services.
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
290
Launch Mass
305
Shape
Box + pan
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Starlink Group 4-36-54
Purpose
Communication
Mission
Communication
Manufacturer
SPXS
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Starlink
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Krypton ion thrusters
Equipment
Ku/Ka-band payload, optical inter-satellite link
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
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