Space Brief 31 Dec 2024
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STARLINK-5659 (55351)
COSPAR: 2023-013W | Alt Name: Starlink 5659
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
January 26, 2023
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
55351
International Designator
2023-013W
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 11:52:16 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
43.00°
Right Ascension
278.84°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
264.50°
Period
94.27 min
Mean Motion
15.28 rev/day
Latitude
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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-5659
Alternative Name
Starlink 5659
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 55351U 23013W 26200.49463657 -.00000366 00000+0 -37829-5 0 9992
2 55351 43.0026 278.8356 0001161 264.4979 95.5740 15.27575680191833
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The satellite named STARLINK-5659 (OBJECT_ID: 2023-013W) is a Starlink communication satellite launched by SpaceX on January 26, 2023, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's LC40 using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. With dimensions of 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter, the satellite features a box shape with panels and has a span of 9 meters. Its dry mass is 290 kilograms, and it was launched with a total mass of 305 kilograms. The satellite is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities for communication and an optical inter-satellite link system. It uses krypton ion thrusters as its propulsion method and relies on solar arrays and batteries for power supply.
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 5-2-21
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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