Space Brief 31 Dec 2024
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STARLINK-31081 (58632)
COSPAR: 2023-203Q | Alt Name: Starlink 31081
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
December 23, 2023
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
58632
International Designator
2023-203Q
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 20:28:33 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
43.00°
Right Ascension
44.17°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
266.15°
Period
94.27 min
Mean Motion
15.28 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-31081
Alternative Name
Starlink 31081
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 58632U 23203Q 26200.85316411 .00000309 00000+0 20767-4 0 9990
2 58632 43.0008 44.1745 0001277 266.1456 93.9250 15.27573764144962
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The satellite STARLINK-31081, also known as Starlink 31081, is a Starlink V2M satellite configured in the Starlink v2 Mini design, launched on December 23, 2023. It was manufactured by SPXS and owned by SpaceX (SPXS). Launched from Launch Complex 40 at AFETR using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, this communication satellite has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length, a diameter of 4.1 meters, and a span of 29 meters. It features Argon ion thrusters for propulsion, solar arrays with batteries for power supply, and a payload that includes Ku/Ka/E-band systems along with an optical inter-satellite link. The satellite has a launch mass of 730 kg and a dry mass of 700 kg.
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 6-32-15
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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