Space Brief 2 Feb 2025
Today's highlights include new satellite launches by SpaceX, technical hiccups for an Indian navigation satellite, and insights into the future of satellite servicing.
STARLINK-30059 (55714)
COSPAR: 2023-026V | Alt Name: Starlink 30059
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
February 27, 2023
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
55714
International Designator
2023-026V
Decay Date
9/23/2023
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Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-30059
Alternative Name
Starlink 30059
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The satellite identified by NORAD CAT ID 55714 and OBJECT ID 2023-026V is a Starlink V2M spacecraft, part of the Starlink v2 Mini configuration. Launched from Launch Pad LC40 at AFETR on February 27, 2023, using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, this satellite was manufactured by SPXS and has a dry mass of 700 kg with a launch mass of 730 kg. It is designed for communication purposes and is equipped with Ku/Ka/E-band payload systems and optical inter-satellite links for data transmission. The satellite features Argon ion thrusters as its motor, solar arrays, and batteries for power supply, and has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length, a diameter of 4.1 meters, and spans 29 meters. It reached a stable orbit on February 28, 2023, at 18:35 UTC.
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 6-1-20
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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