Space Brief 23 Feb 2025
SpaceX launches Starlink satellites from both coasts, while first 3D atmospheric map of an exoplanet reveals extreme weather patterns, and Starlink missions push total count over 8,000 satellites.
STARLINK-30301 (57666)
COSPAR: 2023-124D | Alt Name: Starlink 30301
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
57666
International Designator
2023-124D
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 20:36:44 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
12.92°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
95.22°
Period
93.82 min
Mean Motion
15.35 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-30301
Alternative Name
Starlink 30301
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 57666U 23124D 26200.85884711 .00013322 00000+0 39935-3 0 9996
2 57666 53.1609 12.9159 0002195 95.2186 264.9067 15.34823410162937
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The STARLINK-30301 satellite, also known as Starlink 30301, is a communication satellite designed under the Starlink v2 Mini configuration by SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on August 22, 2023, from Vandenberg Space Force Base (AFWTR) SLC4E using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, this satellite measures approximately 0.3 meters in length with a diameter of 4.1 meters and spans up to 29 meters when deployed. It has a dry mass of 700 kg and was launched with a total mass of 730 kg. Equipped with Ku/Ka/E-band payload and optical inter-satellite link, it uses Argon ion thrusters for propulsion and solar arrays along with batteries for power generation. The satellite's design includes a box shape with a panel 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
0.3
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 7-1-04
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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