Space Brief 2 Dec 2025
Today's brief covers China's classified Shijian-28 satellite launch, AI-designed spacecraft records, and upcoming global launch activities.
STARLINK-31271 (58827)
COSPAR: 2024-017B | Alt Name: Starlink 31271
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
58827
International Designator
2024-017B
Epoch
Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:31:44 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
309.89°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
84.18°
Period
94.11 min
Mean Motion
15.30 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-31271
Alternative Name
Starlink 31271
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 58827U 24017B 26201.02204536 .00005544 00000+0 19920-3 0 9998
2 58827 53.1572 309.8853 0001697 84.1830 275.9364 15.30195089140314
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The STARLINK-31271 satellite, also known as Starlink 31271, is a communication satellite belonging to SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on January 24, 2024, from Space Launch Complex 4E at Vandenberg Space Force Base using the Falcon 9 launch vehicle, it has a configuration of Starlink v2 Mini with dimensions of 0.3 meters in length and 4.1 meters in diameter. The satellite's span is 29 meters, indicating likely extendable solar arrays or antennas. It carries a Ku/Ka/E-band payload alongside an optical inter-satellite link for communication purposes and uses Argon ion thrusters for its propulsion system. Weighing approximately 730 kg at launch with a dry mass of 700 kg, it is powered by solar arrays and batteries. The satellite's shape resembles a box with a pan design.
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 7-11-02
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
Map
Next Pass
Azimuth Elevation Time (Local)
Start Azimuth
Max Elevation
Stop Azimuth
Time Until
Pass Duration
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