Space Brief 11 Sep 2024
A recap of notable space events including the Soyuz MS-26 launch to the ISS, Polaris Dawn's altitude achievement, and satellite tracking updates.
STARLINK-30432 (57864)
COSPAR: 2023-144A | Alt Name: Starlink 30432
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
September 16, 2023
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
57864
International Designator
2023-144A
Epoch
Mon, 20 Jul 2026 01:27:53 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
43.00°
Right Ascension
257.50°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
273.03°
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-30432
Alternative Name
Starlink 30432
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 57864U 23144A 26201.06103256 -.00000355 00000+0 -33791-5 0 9990
2 57864 43.0008 257.4986 0001346 273.0280 87.0418 15.27575422157847
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The STARLINK-30432 satellite, also known as Starlink 30432, was launched on September 16, 2023, from the Air Force Eastern Test Range (AFETR), LC40 launch pad using a Falcon 9 rocket. It is part of the Starlink v2 Mini configuration and has been manufactured by SpaceX (SPXS). The satellite measures 0.3 meters in length with a diameter of 4.1 meters and spans 29 meters when fully deployed, including its solar arrays. Its dry mass is 700 kg while it had a launch mass of 730 kg. It is equipped with Ku/Ka/E-band payload systems for communication along with an optical inter-satellite link. The satellite uses Argon ion thrusters as propulsion and relies on solar power supplemented by batteries. Its mission is to provide communication services, making it part of the Starlink Group 6-16-01 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
0.3
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 6-16-01
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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