Space Brief 2 Jan 2025
Today's recap covers SpaceX's role in record launch numbers, the FCC's spectrum allocation for launches, and the historical portrayal of the Ingenuity helicopter.
STARLINK-30040 (55697)
COSPAR: 2023-026C | Alt Name: Starlink 30040
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
February 27, 2023
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
55697
International Designator
2023-026C
Decay Date
8/23/2024
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Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-30040
Alternative Name
Starlink 30040
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
STARLINK-30040, also known as Starlink 30040, is a communication satellite launched by SpaceX on February 27, 2023, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Launch Complex 40 using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The spacecraft measures 0.3 meters in length and has a diameter of 4.1 meters with a span of 29 meters. It carries a dry mass of 700 kilograms and had a launch mass of 730 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka/E-band payload and optical inter-satellite link, the satellite is powered by solar arrays and batteries. Its propulsion system includes Argon ion thrusters for maneuvering in orbit. The satellite was part of the Starlink Group 6-1-03 mission and operates as part of SpaceX's broader Starlink constellation to provide 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
0.3
Diameter
4.1
Span
29
Dry Mass
700
Launch Mass
730
Shape
Box + pan
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Starlink Group 6-1-03
Purpose
Communication
Mission
Communication
Manufacturer
SPXS
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Starlink V2M
Configuration
Starlink v2 Mini
Motor
Argon ion thrusters
Equipment
Ku/Ka/E-band payload, optical inter-satellite link
Power System
Solar arrays, batteries
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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