Space Brief 4 Mar 2025
Today's brief covers the historic lunar touchdown by Firefly Aerospace's Blue Ghost lander, highlights in military space activity, and a reflection on Pearl Young's pioneering legacy at NASA.
STARLINK-30055 (55699)
COSPAR: 2023-026E | Alt Name: Starlink 30055
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
February 27, 2023
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
55699
International Designator
2023-026E
Decay Date
7/27/2024
Explore in the Catalog
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-30055
Alternative Name
Starlink 30055
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
STARLINK-30055, also known as Starlink 30055, is a communication satellite belonging to SpaceX's Starlink constellation. It was launched on February 27, 2023, from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station (LC40) using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite measures 0.3 meters in length and 4.1 meters in diameter with a span of 29 meters. Its dry mass is 700 kg, and it has an initial launch mass of 730 kg. Equipped with a Ku/Ka/E-band payload and optical inter-satellite link for communication purposes, the satellite uses Argon ion thrusters as its motor system and is powered by solar arrays and batteries. The spacecraft's shape is described as box-shaped with a panel extension.
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 6-1-05
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
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
SpaceX Targets 600th Falcon Booster Landing, X Report 19 Apr 2026
SpaceX targets its 600th Falcon 9 booster landing on Starlink 17-22, lofting 25 satellites from Vandenberg. Plus a 2028 SpaceX ride for ESA's Mars rover.
X Report 13 Nov 2025
Today's report covers SpaceX's progress on Starship pad realignment and Rocket Lab's delay of its Neutron rocket debut, highlighting key advancements and competitive dynamics in the space industry.
Space Brief 8 Oct 2025
Today's brief covers key developments in satellite launches, missile defense strategies, advanced IoT satellite connectivity, and the projected growth of the satellite market driven by defense needs.
Falcon 9 Booster B1067 Reaches 35th Flight Record | KeepTrack Space Brief
Booster B1067 sets new Falcon 9 reuse record with 35th successful flight, deploying 29 Starlink satellites. Quantum Space pursues public markets via SPAC.
X Report 5 Apr 2025
SpaceX secures major U.S. military contracts, Fram2 concludes historic mission, and preparations for another Starlink launch.
X Report 12 Apr 2025
Key developments include the launch of Starshield satellites for the NRO and updates on Starlink launches and NASA access concerns involving Elon Musk's team.
Space Brief 14 Jul 2025
Today's briefing covers the latest developments in satellite intelligence funding, new mandates affecting space launch and missile defense, and the early conclusion of a private astronaut mission. We also discuss Firefly Aerospace's plans to go public and stunning imagery from NASA's Parker Solar Probe.