Space Brief 7 Aug 2025
Today's brief covers significant developments in missile defense, military space operations, and upcoming rocket launches. Keep an eye on the evolving Golden Dome program and the advanced capabilities it brings.
STARLINK-5621 (55434)
COSPAR: 2023-014AV | Alt Name: Starlink 5621
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
55434
International Designator
2023-014AV
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 20:15:51 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
70.00°
Right Ascension
131.27°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
270.46°
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-5621
Alternative Name
Starlink 5621
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 55434U 23014AV 26200.84434354 .00000353 00000+0 37356-4 0 9994
2 55434 70.0004 131.2686 0002799 270.4562 89.6277 14.98331418190869
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The STARLINK-5621 satellite, also known as Starlink 5621, is a communication spacecraft operated by SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on January 31, 2023, from Vandenberg Space Force Base's SLC4E pad using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, it has dimensions of approximately 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and spans 9 meters with its extended components. The satellite is equipped with a Ku/Ka-band payload for communication purposes and an optical inter-satellite link system. It also features krypton ion thrusters for maneuvering and solar arrays paired with batteries for power generation. With a dry mass of 290 kg, the launch mass was 305 kg. The spacecraft is designed in a box shape with a pan configuration and serves as part of the Starlink Group 2-6-44 constellation, aiming to enhance global communication capabilities.
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 2-6-44
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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