Space Brief 23 Oct 2025
Today's updates cover Vantor's satellites overcoming tracking challenges, a startup's ambitious missile defense test, and more pivotal space events.
STARLINK-30537 (57991)
COSPAR: 2023-153A | Alt Name: Starlink 30537
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
October 5, 2023
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
57991
International Designator
2023-153A
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 13:11:40 GMT
Apogee
Calculating...
Perigee
Calculating...
Inclination
43.01°
Right Ascension
42.30°
Eccentricity
Calculating...
Argument of Perigee
256.82°
Period
94.27 min
Mean Motion
15.28 rev/day
Latitude
Calculating...
Longitude
Calculating...
Altitude
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Velocity
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Polar Plot
3D Visualization
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Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-30537
Alternative Name
Starlink 30537
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 57991U 23153A 26200.54976916 -.00000015 00000+0 89972-5 0 9998
2 57991 43.0060 42.3009 0001529 256.8181 103.2501 15.27578006154960
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-30537 is a communication satellite identified by NORAD as CAT_ID 57991 and OBJECT_ID 2023-153A, launched on October 5, 2023, from the AFSCLC40 launch pad using a Falcon 9 vehicle. The satellite belongs to SpaceX (SPXS) with an equipment payload that includes Ku/Ka/E-band communications and optical inter-satellite link technology. It has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length, a diameter of 4.1 meters, and a span of 29 meters. The dry mass is recorded at 700 kilograms while the launch mass was 730 kilograms. Powered by solar arrays and batteries, it uses Argon ion thrusters for propulsion. Its shape is described as box with a panel, and it operates in support of communication missions within the Starlink v2 Mini configuration 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 6-21-01
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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