Space Brief 6 Feb 2025
Today's brief covers a diverse range of topics, including reentry mission approvals, leadership changes in the Space Development Agency, and innovative military satellite communications.
STARLINK-6218 (57368)
COSPAR: 2023-099AS | Alt Name: Starlink 6218
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
July 16, 2023
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
57368
International Designator
2023-099AS
Epoch
Mon, 20 Jul 2026 07:50:34 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
43.00°
Right Ascension
212.68°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
263.88°
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-6218
Alternative Name
Starlink 6218
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 57368U 23099AS 26201.32679084 -.00000090 00000+0 62452-5 0 9995
2 57368 43.0002 212.6794 0001066 263.8830 96.1900 15.27576305166485
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-6218, also known as Starlink 6218, is a communication satellite owned by SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on July 16, 2023, from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station (AFETR) Launch Complex 40 (LC40) using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, it has a launch mass of 305 kg and a dry mass of 290 kg. The satellite measures 0.2 meters in length with a diameter of 2.8 meters and spans 9 meters, featuring a box plus panel shape. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link, it is powered by solar arrays and batteries, and its propulsion system includes krypton ion thrusters. The satellite's purpose is to provide communication services as part of the Starlink Group 5-15-41 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 5-15-41
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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