Space Brief 21 Oct 2024
Today's Space Brief covers SpaceX's recent launch for OneWeb, advances in remote-control robots for lunar missions, the power loss of Intelsat 33e, and developments in inflatable space habitats.
STARLINK-5555 (55386)
COSPAR: 2023-013BH | Alt Name: Starlink 5555
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
January 26, 2023
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
55386
International Designator
2023-013BH
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 14:24:55 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
43.00°
Right Ascension
293.45°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
267.35°
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-5555
Alternative Name
Starlink 5555
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 55386U 23013BH 26200.60063994 -.00000549 00000+0 -10427-4 0 9990
2 55386 43.0036 293.4531 0001591 267.3533 92.7137 15.27576263191674
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The satellite STARLINK-5555 (OBJECT_ID: 2023-013BH) is a Starlink communication satellite manufactured by SpaceX (SPXS). It was launched on January 26, 2023, from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station (AFETR), Launch Pad LC40, using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has dimensions of approximately 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter, with a span of 9 meters, indicating large solar arrays or deployable components. It weighs about 305 kilograms at launch (dry mass is 290 kg) and is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload equipment for communication purposes, along with optical inter-satellite links for data transmission. Power is supplied by solar arrays complemented by batteries. The satellite uses krypton ion thrusters as its propulsion system and has a box-shaped body with panels, suitable for its mission in the Starlink Group 5-2-56 constellation for 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 5-2-56
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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