Space Brief 21 Jun 2025
Today's brief highlights a Pentagon satellite network challenge, the expanding use of AI in military strategy, and advancements in commercial launch vehicle production.
STARLINK-6044 (56479)
COSPAR: 2023-064AH | Alt Name: Starlink 6044
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
56479
International Designator
2023-064AH
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 19:28:06 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
70.00°
Right Ascension
151.17°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
270.67°
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-6044
Alternative Name
Starlink 6044
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 56479U 23064AH 26200.81119080 .00000254 00000+0 29083-4 0 9990
2 56479 70.0001 151.1747 0002966 270.6660 89.4160 14.98338510175538
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-6044 is a Starlink satellite launched on May 10, 2023, from AFWTR SLC4E using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle by SpaceX (SPXS). The spacecraft has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and a span of 9 meters. It carries a Ku/Ka-band payload with an optical inter-satellite link and uses krypton ion thrusters for propulsion. The satellite's dry mass is 290 kilograms, and it has a launch mass of 305 kilograms. Equipped with solar arrays and batteries for power, STARLINK-6044 operates as part of the Starlink Group 2-9-32 constellation for communication purposes.
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 2-9-32
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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