Space Brief 14 Dec 2024
Today’s Space Brief covers significant developments such as SpaceX’s latest Starlink launch, the US Space Force testing modular satellite technology, and key long-range missile tests by the Pentagon.
STARLINK-5479 (55662)
COSPAR: 2023-021AL | Alt Name: Starlink 5479
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
55662
International Designator
2023-021AL
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 08:59:46 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
70.00°
Right Ascension
192.68°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
267.76°
Period
96.16 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-5479
Alternative Name
Starlink 5479
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 55662U 23021AL 26200.37484186 -.00000539 00000+0 -38244-4 0 9996
2 55662 69.9993 192.6787 0003424 267.7588 92.3179 14.97522639189004
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-5479, also known as Starlink 5479, is a communication satellite launched by SpaceX (SPXS) on February 17, 2023, from Space Launch Complex 4E at Vandenberg Space Force Station using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite measures 0.2 meters in length and has a diameter of 2.8 meters with a span of 9 meters. It weighs approximately 305 kilograms at launch and 290 kilograms dry, equipped with solar arrays and batteries for power generation. STARLINK-5479 is part of the Starlink Group 2-5-35 and uses krypton ion thrusters for propulsion. Its payload includes a Ku/Ka-band communication system and an optical inter-satellite link. The satellite's shape is described as "Box + pan."
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 2-5-35
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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