X Report 18 Dec 2025
SpaceX carried out a double-header Starlink launch from both coasts while milestones from Max Space and Lux Aeterna signal growth in the commercial space sector.
STARLINK-5997 (56327)
COSPAR: 2023-058L | Alt Name: Starlink 5997
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
56327
International Designator
2023-058L
Epoch
Mon, 20 Jul 2026 06:39:29 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
97.28°
Right Ascension
198.50°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
89.65°
Period
95.64 min
Mean Motion
15.06 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-5997
Alternative Name
Starlink 5997
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 56327U 23058L 26201.27742926 .00000738 00000+0 55016-4 0 9999
2 56327 97.2832 198.5026 0001802 89.6517 270.4918 15.05656608178070
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The Starlink satellite named STARLINK-5997 (OBJECT_ID: 2023-058L) was launched on April 27, 2023, from the AFWTR launch site using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle from SLC4E. With a dry mass of 260 kg and a launch mass of 300 kg, it is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link for communication purposes. The satellite's dimensions are 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and has a span of 9 meters. It uses solar arrays and batteries for power and krypton ion thrusters as its motor system. The shape is described as a box with a pan configuration. It operates under the ownership of SPXS and is part of the Starlink Group 3-5-11 payload mission, aiming to enhance communication capabilities.
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
260
Launch Mass
300
Shape
Box + pan
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Starlink Group 3-5-11
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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