Space Brief 31 Jul 2025
Today's Space Brief brings updates on the U.S. Space Force's upcoming missions, in-space technology strategies, the challenges faced by new launchers, and advancements in satellite communication.
STARLINK-30829 (58158)
COSPAR: 2023-166J | Alt Name: Starlink 30829
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
58158
International Designator
2023-166J
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 16:11:33 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
326.07°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
86.52°
Period
94.01 min
Mean Motion
15.32 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-30829
Alternative Name
Starlink 30829
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 58158U 23166J 26200.67469626 .00001039 00000+0 45244-4 0 9996
2 58158 53.1611 326.0715 0001100 86.5191 273.5936 15.31704944153396
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The satellite STARLINK-30829, also known as Starlink 30829, is part of the Starlink v2 Mini configuration and was launched on October 29, 2023 from AFWTR (SLC4E) using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length, 4.1 meters in diameter, and a span of 29 meters. The satellite features an Argon ion thruster for propulsion and is equipped with a Ku/Ka/E-band payload along with optical inter-satellite link technology. Its dry mass is 700 kg, while its launch mass was 730 kg, powered by solar arrays and batteries. This communication satellite is owned and operated by SpaceX (SPXS), manufactured under the Starlink Group 7-6-09 mission, and has a box plus pan shape.
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 7-6-09
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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