Space Brief 22 Sep 2025
Today's edition highlights the operational deployment of HawkEye 360's Cluster 12, Shandong's record satellite launch, Planet Labs' latest imaging achievements, SpaceX's Starlink launches, and more.
STARLINK-6078 (56106)
COSPAR: 2023-046P | Alt Name: Starlink 6078
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
March 29, 2023
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
56106
International Designator
2023-046P
Decay Date
1/17/2025
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Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-6078
Alternative Name
Starlink 6078
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The Starlink satellite designated STARLINK-6078 (NORAD CAT ID: 56106) was launched on March 29, 2023, from Launch Complex 40 at the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station aboard a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It has dimensions of approximately 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter with a span of 9 meters. The satellite's dry mass is 290 kilograms, and its total launch mass was 305 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link, it utilizes krypton ion thrusters for propulsion and solar arrays with batteries for power generation. Its primary mission is communication as part of the Starlink Group 5-10-14 constellation managed by SpaceX (SPXS).
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 5-10-14
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
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