Space Brief 29 Jul 2025
Today's brief covers developments in space traffic management, the X-37B spaceplane's upcoming mission, and satellite interference with radio telescopes.
STARLINK-5623 (55405)
COSPAR: 2023-014Q | Alt Name: Starlink 5623
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
55405
International Designator
2023-014Q
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 19:15:06 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
70.00°
Right Ascension
91.39°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
270.12°
Period
96.11 min
Mean Motion
14.98 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-5623
Alternative Name
Starlink 5623
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 55405U 23014Q 26200.80215529 -.00000231 00000+0 -11544-4 0 9997
2 55405 70.0000 91.3936 0002707 270.1215 89.9633 14.98331679191845
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-5623 is a communication satellite belonging to SpaceX's Starlink constellation and was launched on January 31, 2023, from AFWTR SLC4E using the Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and a span of 9 meters. The satellite carries a Ku/Ka-band payload with an optical inter-satellite link for communication purposes and is powered by solar arrays and batteries. Its propulsion system consists of Krypton ion thrusters, and it has a dry mass of 290 kilograms and a launch mass of 305 kilograms. The purpose of STARLINK-5623 is to provide global internet connectivity as part of the Starlink Group 2-6-15 mission.
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 2-6-15
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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