Space Brief 24 Dec 2025
Today's highlights include the successes and setbacks in recent rocket launches, a notable satellite anomaly, and a significant expansion announcement from ESA.
STARLINK-5361 (57142)
COSPAR: 2023-090AT | Alt Name: Starlink 5361
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
June 23, 2023
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
57142
International Designator
2023-090AT
Epoch
Mon, 20 Jul 2026 03:29:56 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
43.00°
Right Ascension
235.06°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
302.77°
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-5361
Alternative Name
Starlink 5361
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 57142U 23090AT 26201.14578759 -.00001730 00000+0 -53337-4 0 9997
2 57142 43.0043 235.0592 0001717 302.7743 57.2943 15.27574901170619
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-5361, also known as Starlink 5361, is a communication satellite operated by SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on June 23, 2023, from the AFSFL LC40 launch pad using a Falcon 9 rocket, it has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter with a span of 9 meters. The satellite weighs 305 kg at launch and has a dry mass of 290 kg. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload and optical inter-satellite link for communication, it uses Krypton ion thrusters as its motor system and solar arrays along with batteries for power generation. Its shape is described as box + pan configuration.
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 5-12-42
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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