Space Brief 5 Mar 2025
Today's brief covers developments in US military space initiatives, advancements in missile technology, and notable military contractor activities.
STARLINK-30773 (58161)
COSPAR: 2023-166M | Alt Name: Starlink 30773
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
58161
International Designator
2023-166M
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 18:45:56 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
326.01°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
95.86°
Period
94.11 min
Mean Motion
15.30 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-30773
Alternative Name
Starlink 30773
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 58161U 23166M 26200.78189909 .00001310 00000+0 56354-4 0 9991
2 58161 53.1604 326.0095 0001462 95.8637 264.2530 15.30194922153409
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The Starlink-30773 satellite, also known as Starlink 30773, is a communication satellite identified by NORAD CAT ID 58161 and OBJECT ID 2023-166M. Launched on October 29, 2023, from Space Launch Complex 4E (SLC4E) at AFWTR using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, this satellite has a configuration known as Starlink v2 Mini and was manufactured by SpaceX (SPXS). It features an Argon ion thruster for propulsion and carries a payload capable of Ku/Ka/E-band communications alongside optical inter-satellite links. The satellite's dimensions include a length of 0.3 meters, a diameter of 4.1 meters, and a span of 29 meters. Its dry mass is recorded at 700 kilograms with an overall launch mass of 730 kilograms. Power for the satellite is supplied by solar arrays and batteries.
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 7-6-12
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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