Space Brief 5 Sep 2024
Today we cover the final launch of Vega's original version, a significant milestone for SpaceX with the U.S. military, preparations for NASA's Starliner return, and more.
STARLINK-30256 (57522)
COSPAR: 2023-115B | Alt Name: Starlink 30256
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
57522
International Designator
2023-115B
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 10:02:15 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
43.01°
Right Ascension
337.99°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
259.86°
Period
94.26 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-30256
Alternative Name
Starlink 30256
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 57522U 23115B 26200.41823852 -.00013721 00000+0 -48894-3 0 9997
2 57522 43.0051 337.9907 0001846 259.8603 100.2040 15.27649738162497
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The STARLINK-30256 satellite, also known as Starlink 30256, is a communication satellite manufactured by SPXS and owned by SPXS. It was launched on August 8, 2023, from AFWTR SLC4E using the Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length, 4.1 meters in diameter, and a span of 29 meters. With a dry mass of 700 kilograms and a launch mass of 730 kilograms, it is equipped with Ku/Ka/E-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link for communication purposes. The satellite uses solar arrays and batteries for power supply and is propelled by Argon ion thrusters. It was part of the Starlink Group 6-20-02 mission and has a box plus pan shape.
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
0.3
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 6-20-02
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
Map
Next Pass
Azimuth Elevation Time (Local)
Start Azimuth
Max Elevation
Stop Azimuth
Time Until
Pass Duration
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