X Report 27 Jul 2025
SpaceX's rapid advancements continued this weekend with two consecutive Starlink missions and preparations for the upcoming Crew-11 launch, showcasing its efficiency and commitment to expanding satellite broadband coverage.
STARLINK-5540 (56340)
COSPAR: 2023-058Z | Alt Name: Starlink 5540
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
56340
International Designator
2023-058Z
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 23:58:42 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
97.28°
Right Ascension
199.34°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
92.54°
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-5540
Alternative Name
Starlink 5540
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 56340U 23058Z 26200.99910382 .00000469 00000+0 36412-4 0 9995
2 56340 97.2838 199.3361 0002154 92.5447 267.6027 15.05654895178107
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The STARLINK-5540 satellite, also known as Starlink 5540, was launched on April 27, 2023, from AFWTR SLC4E using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It is part of the Starlink Group 3-5-24 and has a bus configuration designated as "Starlink." The satellite measures 0.2 meters in length, with a diameter of 2.8 meters and a span of 9 meters. Its dry mass is 260 kilograms, and it had a launch mass of 300 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload and optical inter-satellite link communication systems, the satellite also uses krypton ion thrusters for propulsion. Power is provided by solar arrays and batteries, and its primary purpose is to facilitate communication services. The satellite was manufactured by SPXS and is owned by the same entity.
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 3-5-24
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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