Space Brief 7 Apr 2025
Today's highlights include new ESA Euclid data, upcoming Blue Origin flight, and multiple Starlink launches, delivering fresh satellite tracking opportunities.
STARLINK-6197 (56767)
COSPAR: 2023-078A | Alt Name: Starlink 6197
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
56767
International Designator
2023-078A
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 19:36:51 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
69.99°
Right Ascension
5.33°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
286.42°
Period
94.60 min
Mean Motion
15.22 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-6197
Alternative Name
Starlink 6197
Type
Payload
Status
Partially operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 56767U 23078A 26200.81726610 .00020499 00000+0 89260-3 0 9993
2 56767 69.9898 5.3266 0005726 286.4213 73.6328 15.22199250172623
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-6197 is a communication satellite under the Starlink program launched by SpaceX on May 31, 2023, from Space Launch Complex 4E at Vandenberg Space Force Base using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The spacecraft measures 0.2 meters in length, has a diameter of 2.8 meters, and spans 9 meters, with a dry mass of 290 kilograms and a launch mass of 305 kilograms. It is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link for communication purposes. The satellite uses solar arrays and batteries for power and krypton ion thrusters for propulsion.
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 2-10-01
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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