X Report 18 Dec 2024
SpaceX achieves significant milestones with Starship and multiple launch missions, while Starlink connectivity expands through T-Mobile's beta program.
STARLINK-31246 (58835)
COSPAR: 2024-017K | Alt Name: Starlink 31246
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
58835
International Designator
2024-017K
Epoch
Mon, 20 Jul 2026 07:39:27 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
308.18°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
78.99°
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-31246
Alternative Name
Starlink 31246
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 58835U 24017K 26201.31907309 .00001213 00000+0 53096-4 0 9999
2 58835 53.1604 308.1793 0001210 78.9908 281.1229 15.30191639140363
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The satellite STARLINK-31246, also known as Starlink 31246, is a communication satellite belonging to the Starlink v2 Mini configuration, manufactured by SpaceX (SPXS). It was launched on January 24, 2024, from AFWTR SLC4E using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length and 4.1 meters in diameter with a span of 29 meters. It weighs 700 kilograms when dry and had a launch mass of 730 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka/E-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link, it is powered by solar arrays and batteries and uses Argon ion thrusters for propulsion. The satellite's mission is to provide communication services as part of the Starlink Group 7-11-10 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 7-11-10
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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