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STARLINK-5646 (55461)
COSPAR: 2023-015N | Alt Name: Starlink 5646
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
February 2, 2023
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
55461
International Designator
2023-015N
Epoch
Mon, 20 Jul 2026 07:18:13 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
43.00°
Right Ascension
299.79°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
268.92°
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-5646
Alternative Name
Starlink 5646
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 55461U 23015N 26201.30432390 -.00000179 00000+0 30209-5 0 9993
2 55461 43.0029 299.7948 0001326 268.9225 91.1474 15.27575371191005
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-5646 is a communication satellite launched by SpaceX on February 2, 2023, from Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy Space Center using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The spacecraft measures 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and has a span of 9 meters with a dry mass of 290 kilograms. It is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload for communication services and an optical inter-satellite link system. Solar arrays and batteries provide power to the satellite, which is also fitted with Krypton ion thrusters for maneuvering. The mission purpose is to support SpaceX's Starlink constellation as part of the Starlink Group 5-3-13.
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 5-3-13
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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