Air Force One Gets Starlink, Astrobotic Acquired | KeepTrack Space Brief
Trump's interim Air Force One—a $400M Boeing 747-8—equipped with Starlink for presidential communications. First confirmed LEO constellation use for White House comms.
STARLINK-30273 (57681)
COSPAR: 2023-124U | Alt Name: Starlink 30273
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
57681
International Designator
2023-124U
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 12:04:02 GMT
Apogee
Calculating...
Perigee
Calculating...
Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
313.93°
Eccentricity
Calculating...
Argument of Perigee
56.43°
Period
93.99 min
Mean Motion
15.32 rev/day
Latitude
Calculating...
Longitude
Calculating...
Altitude
Calculating...
Velocity
Calculating...
Polar Plot
3D Visualization
Explore in the Catalog
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-30273
Alternative Name
Starlink 30273
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 57681U 23124U 26200.50280426 .00030308 00000+0 97154-3 0 9998
2 57681 53.1576 313.9318 0001042 56.4253 303.6848 15.32124055163758
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-30273 is a Starlink V2M satellite, configured as a Starlink v2 Mini, owned and operated by SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on August 22, 2023, from Vandenberg Space Force Base using the Falcon 9 launch vehicle, it has a dry mass of 700 kg and a launch mass of 730 kg. The satellite measures 0.3 meters in length with a diameter of 4.1 meters and a span of 29 meters. It is equipped with Ku/Ka/E-band payload equipment and an optical inter-satellite link, powered by solar arrays and batteries. The propulsion system consists of Argon ion thrusters. Its primary mission and purpose are communication services.
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 7-1-19
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
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
Space Force Eyes 1,000 Launches by 2031, New Site Required | KeepTrack Space Brief
Space Force projects ~1,000 launches between FY2027–FY2031, averaging 200 annually. DAF study concludes new launch site is "probably" required to absorb cadence.
Vulcan Set to Open 2026 With USSF-87 National Security Launch | KeepTrack Space Brief
ULA's Vulcan rocket preps for USSF-87 national security launch to open 2026. Sierra Space delivers SDA Tranche 2 satellites three months early. NASA delays spacewalk for Crew-11 medical issue.
X Report 5 May 2025
SpaceX celebrated Star Wars Day with a successful launch of Starlink satellites, furthering its mission to enhance global internet access. Lego also revealed a new collectible set tied to the franchise.
Space Brief 18 Dec 2024
Today's highlights include SpaceX's rapid response GPS launch, Raytheon's new rocket motor test, and Starlink's revenue surge. Plus, the Space Force's modernization push.
Space Brief 24 Oct 2025
Today's Space Brief covers China's latest satellite launch, Russian threats to UK satellites, European defense strategies, and upcoming satellite launches from SatLeo and Quantum Space.
Space Brief 26 Sep 2025
Today's Space Brief highlights major developments including NASA's Dream Chaser contract modifications, Germany's significant investment in space capabilities, and advancements in hybrid satcom technology.
Artemis II Rolls Out to Pad 39B, China Hit by Dual Launch Failures | KeepTrack Space Brief
Artemis II SLS/Orion rolls to Launch Complex 39B for first crewed lunar mission since 1972. China suffers dual launch failures on the same day. SpainSat NG 2 declared total loss from debris strike.