X Report 13 Apr 2025
SpaceX successfully launches 21 Starlink satellites and deploys a new batch of spy satellites for the US government.
STARLINK-6304 (56778)
COSPAR: 2023-078M | Alt Name: Starlink 6304
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
56778
International Designator
2023-078M
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 20:01:30 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
70.00°
Right Ascension
351.43°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
261.07°
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-6304
Alternative Name
Starlink 6304
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 56778U 23078M 26200.83438397 -.00000011 00000+0 69122-5 0 9995
2 56778 70.0009 351.4295 0003147 261.0669 99.0133 14.98331414172963
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The STARLINK-6304 satellite, also known as Starlink 6304, is part of the Starlink constellation and was launched on May 31, 2023, from AFWTR's SLC4E launch pad using a Falcon 9 rocket. It serves a communication mission for SpaceX (SPXS). The satellite 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 a Ku/Ka-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link for communication purposes. Power is supplied by solar arrays and batteries, while its propulsion system uses krypton ion thrusters for maneuvering.
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 2-10-12
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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