Space Brief 27 Nov 2025
Today's highlights include new space-based interceptor developments, a UK space tracking partnership, a strategic satellite imagery alliance, and more.
STARLINK-31048 (58544)
COSPAR: 2023-192P | Alt Name: Starlink 31048
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
58544
International Designator
2023-192P
Epoch
Mon, 20 Jul 2026 07:01:06 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
166.34°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
69.13°
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-31048
Alternative Name
Starlink 31048
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 58544U 23192P 26201.29243218 .00007648 00000+0 23708-3 0 9992
2 58544 53.1618 166.3362 0001132 69.1269 290.9855 15.34421608146293
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-31048 is a communication satellite belonging to the Starlink v2 Mini configuration under the Starlink V2M bus category, launched by SpaceX (SPXS) on December 8, 2023, from AFWTR SLC4E using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length and 4.1 meters in diameter with a span of 29 meters. The satellite weighs 700 kilograms dry and had a launch mass of 730 kilograms. Equipped with a Ku/Ka/E-band payload, optical inter-satellite link, Argon ion thrusters for propulsion, and solar arrays combined with batteries for power supply, it is part of the Starlink Group 7-8-14 mission. Its shape can be described as box-like with an additional pan structure.
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 7-8-14
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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