Graveyard Orbit
The final resting place for retired satellites, a disposal orbit where defunct spacecraft are sent to stay out of the way
STARLINK-31173 (58802)
COSPAR: 2024-012R | Alt Name: Starlink 31173
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
January 15, 2024
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
58802
International Designator
2024-012R
Decay Date
3/10/2025
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Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-31173
Alternative Name
Starlink 31173
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The satellite designated STARLINK-31173 (OBJECT_ID: 2024-012R) is a Starlink V2M spacecraft designed for communication purposes and launched on January 15, 2024, from the AFETR LC40 launch pad 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 kg dry mass and 730 kg at launch. Equipped with Ku/Ka/E-band payload, optical inter-satellite link, and Argon ion thrusters for propulsion, it is powered by solar arrays and batteries. Its shape consists of a box with pan design and operates under the ownership of SPXS (SpaceX), part of the Starlink Group 6-37-16 constellation.
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 6-37-16
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
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