Space Brief 6 May 2025
Today's brief covers a significant hypersonic flight by Stratolaunch, the US Space Force's missile warning upgrades, and major government space investments.
STARLINK-30400 (57937)
COSPAR: 2023-148C | Alt Name: Starlink 30400
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
57937
International Designator
2023-148C
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 19:19:33 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
128.90°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
89.95°
Period
93.85 min
Mean Motion
15.34 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-30400
Alternative Name
Starlink 30400
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 57937U 23148C 26200.80524830 -.00000228 00000+0 43899-5 0 9999
2 57937 53.1600 128.9004 0001445 89.9499 270.1669 15.34390876158678
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The STARLINK-30400 satellite, also known as Starlink 30400, is a communication satellite operated by SpaceX (SPXS). It was launched on September 25, 2023, from Vandenberg Space Force Base (AFWTR) using the Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length and 4.1 meters in diameter with a span of 29 meters. Weighing 730 kg at launch, its dry mass is 700 kg. It is equipped with a Ku/Ka/E-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link for communication purposes. The satellite uses Argon ion thrusters for maneuvering and solar arrays with batteries for power generation. Its shape consists of a box with a pan 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 7-3-03
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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