Space Brief 2 May 2025
Today's space highlights include significant military contracts for aerospace innovations, advancements in small-satellite procurement, and discussions on the role of nuclear energy in space exploration.
STARLINK-30381 (57785)
COSPAR: 2023-134Q | Alt Name: Starlink 30381
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
September 4, 2023
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
57785
International Designator
2023-134Q
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 14:54:24 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
43.00°
Right Ascension
169.35°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
265.24°
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-30381
Alternative Name
Starlink 30381
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 57785U 23134Q 26200.62111500 -.00001746 00000+0 -53938-4 0 9992
2 57785 43.0022 169.3468 0001155 265.2369 94.8351 15.27578618159686
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-30381 is a Starlink v2 Mini communication satellite manufactured by SPXS and launched on September 4, 2023, from Launch Complex 39A at the Kennedy Space Center using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The spacecraft has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length, 4.1 meters in diameter, and a span of 29 meters. It weighs 700 kilograms dry with a total launch mass of 730 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka/E-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link, the satellite uses solar arrays and batteries for power generation. Its propulsion system includes Argon ion thrusters. The satellite is part of the Starlink Group 6-12-15 constellation and is owned by SpaceX (SPXS).
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 6-12-15
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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