X Report 20 Feb 2025
SpaceX and Rocket Lab make headlines with simultaneous launches, while Musk's Starliner comments stir controversy.
STARLINK-30995 (58474)
COSPAR: 2023-186B | Alt Name: Starlink 30995
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
December 3, 2023
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
58474
International Designator
2023-186B
Decay Date
3/16/2026
Explore in the Catalog
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-30995
Alternative Name
Starlink 30995
Type
Payload
Status
Partially operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-30995 satellite, also known as Starlink 30995, is a communication satellite manufactured by SPXS and owned by SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on December 3, 2023, from LC40 at AFETR using the Falcon 9 launch vehicle, it has a configuration of Starlink v2 Mini with dimensions including a length of 0.3 meters, diameter of 4.1 meters, and span of 29 meters. The satellite carries a Ku/Ka/E-band payload alongside an optical inter-satellite link and uses Argon ion thrusters as its motor system for propulsion. It is equipped with solar arrays and batteries for power generation and has a dry mass of 700 kilograms, weighing 730 kilograms at launch.
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 6-31-02
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
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
Space Brief 5 Dec 2024
Today's brief highlights Umbra Space's contract extension with the NRO, Trump's Space Force ambitions, FibreCoat's new funding targeting defense markets, and key US defense sentiments. Explore notable military and commercial satellite activities.
Space Brief 25 Apr 2025
Today's briefing covers the largest-ever spectrum sharing demo planned by the Pentagon, innovative strategies for drone deployment in the Air Force, and significant military procurement developments.
Space Brief 8 Mar 2025
Today's Space Brief covers the landing of the X-37B spaceplane after a 434-day mission, the postponement of SDA's satellite launch, and the fiery debris from SpaceX's Starship over The Bahamas.
SpaceX Lands $2.29B Space Force Contract, X Report 27 May 2026
SpaceX wins a $2.29 billion US Space Force contract for a military space data network, NASA adds 6 crew missions, and Starship V3 makes its first flight.
Starship Flight 13 Targets July 16 Launch | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX targets July 16 for Starship Flight 13 from Starbase, aiming to fix Flight 12 issues and deploy working Starlink satellites.
Space Brief 29 Nov 2024
Today's brief covers China's Beidou satellite plans, SpaceX's Starship advancements, potential Space Command HQ relocation, and more.
Blue Origin's New Glenn Explodes During Ground Test | KeepTrack Space Brief
Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket exploded during ground testing May 28, visible from hundreds of miles across Florida. Fireball halts vehicle pending failure investigation.