Space Brief 17 Jun 2025
Today's space brief covers key developments in satellite monitoring, U.K. defense contracts, and critical licensing reforms supporting national security.
STARLINK-31012 (58531)
COSPAR: 2023-192A | Alt Name: Starlink 31012
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
58531
International Designator
2023-192A
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 07:06:55 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
170.83°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
86.09°
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-31012
Alternative Name
Starlink 31012
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 58531U 23192A 26200.29647633 .00000471 00000+0 25073-4 0 9991
2 58531 53.1611 170.8304 0001225 86.0854 274.0289 15.34388448146141
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-31012 is a communication satellite under the Starlink v2 Mini configuration, manufactured by SPXS and owned by SPXS. It was launched on December 8, 2023, from AFWTR using Falcon 9 launch vehicle from SLC4E pad. The spacecraft has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length, a diameter of 4.1 meters, and a span of 29 meters. It weighs approximately 700 kilograms dry with a total launch mass of 730 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka/E-band payload and optical inter-satellite link, the satellite is powered by solar arrays and batteries, using Argon ion thrusters for propulsion. The design includes a box-shaped body with additional panels, intended for communication purposes as part of the Starlink Group 7-8-01 mission.
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 7-8-01
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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