Space Brief 6 Feb 2025
Today's brief covers a diverse range of topics, including reentry mission approvals, leadership changes in the Space Development Agency, and innovative military satellite communications.
STARLINK-5998 (56468)
COSPAR: 2023-064W | Alt Name: Starlink 5998
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
56468
International Designator
2023-064W
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 21:28:36 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
70.00°
Right Ascension
170.93°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
263.84°
Period
96.11 min
Mean Motion
14.98 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-5998
Alternative Name
Starlink 5998
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 56468U 23064W 26200.89486199 -.00000280 00000+0 -15639-4 0 9997
2 56468 69.9999 170.9330 0003496 263.8405 96.2356 14.98330095175056
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-5998 is a Starlink satellite operated by SPXS, launched on May 10, 2023, from AFWTR SLC4E using the Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The spacecraft has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length and a diameter of 2.8 meters with a span of 9 meters. It has a dry mass of 290 kilograms and a launch mass of 305 kilograms, powered by solar arrays and batteries. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link, it uses Krypton ion thrusters for propulsion. The satellite's purpose is communication as part of the Starlink Group 2-9-21 constellation.
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 2-9-21
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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