Space Brief 25 Jan 2025
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STARLINK-6309 (56535)
COSPAR: 2023-065AJ | Alt Name: Starlink 6309
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
May 14, 2023
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
56535
International Designator
2023-065AJ
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 16:29:57 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
43.00°
Right Ascension
201.19°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
261.53°
Period
94.27 min
Mean Motion
15.28 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-6309
Alternative Name
Starlink 6309
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 56535U 23065AJ 26200.68746600 .00000710 00000+0 35340-4 0 9993
2 56535 43.0011 201.1902 0001113 261.5251 98.5474 15.27576075176622
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The STARLINK-6309 satellite, also known as Starlink 6309, is part of the Starlink Group 5-9-33 and was launched on May 14, 2023, from AFETR LC40 using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and spans 9 meters. The satellite's dry mass is 290 kilograms with an initial launch mass of 305 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities and optical inter-satellite links, it uses krypton ion thrusters for propulsion and solar arrays combined with batteries for power generation. Its mission is to provide communication services as part of SpaceX's satellite 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 5-9-33
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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