STARLINK-30118 (56696)

COSPAR: 2023-067J | Alt Name: Starlink 30118
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-30118 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

May 19, 2023

Launch Pad

LC40

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

56696

International Designator

2023-067J

Decay Date

7/7/2023

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-30118

Alternative Name

Starlink 30118

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
The STARLINK-30118 satellite, also known as Starlink 30118, is a communication satellite manufactured by SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on May 19, 2023, from Launch Pad LC40 at AFETR using the Falcon 9 launch vehicle, it belongs to the Starlink v2 Mini configuration. The satellite measures 0.3 meters in length and has a diameter of 4.1 meters with a span of 29 meters, featuring solar arrays and batteries for power generation. It weighs 730 kilograms at launch, reducing to a dry mass of 700 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka/E-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link, it uses Argon ion thrusters for propulsion. The primary purpose of STARLINK-30118 is communication, contributing to the broader Starlink Group 6-3-09 mission.

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

0.3

Diameter

4.1

Span

29

Dry Mass

700

Launch Mass

730

Shape

Box + pan

Radar Cross Section

Unknown

Visual Magnitude

Unknown

Color

Unknown

Material Composition

Unknown

Technical Details

Payload

Starlink Group 6-3-09

Purpose

Communication

Mission

Communication

Manufacturer

SPXS

Life Expectancy

Unknown

Bus

Starlink V2M

Configuration

Starlink v2 Mini

Motor

Argon ion thrusters

Equipment

Ku/Ka/E-band payload, optical inter-satellite link

Power System

Solar arrays, batteries

ADCS

Unknown

Transmitter Frequency

Unknown

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