Space Brief 3 Feb 2025
Today's brief covers SpaceX's continued Starlink expansions, Japan's successful Michibiki satellite launch, and challenges faced by India's navigation satellite. Stay updated on crucial satellite events and launches.
STARLINK-30913 (58388)
COSPAR: 2023-178Q | Alt Name: Starlink 30913
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
58388
International Designator
2023-178Q
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 04:01:47 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
108.08°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
94.73°
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-30913
Alternative Name
Starlink 30913
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 58388U 23178Q 26200.16791267 .00000920 00000+0 38354-4 0 9999
2 58388 53.1606 108.0829 0001386 94.7344 265.3817 15.34397482150051
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The Starlink-30913 satellite, also known as STARLINK-30913, is a communication satellite manufactured by SpaceX (SPXS) and launched on November 20, 2023, from AFWTR SLC4E using the Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It measures 0.3 meters in length with a diameter of 4.1 meters and a span of 29 meters. The satellite has a dry mass of 700 kg and was launched at a mass of 730 kg. Its configuration is identified as Starlink v2 Mini, part of the Starlink V2M bus series. It carries a Ku/Ka/E-band payload along with an optical inter-satellite link for communication purposes, powered by solar arrays and batteries. The propulsion system uses Argon ion thrusters to maintain its orbital position.
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 7-7-15
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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