Space Brief 6 Feb 2025
Today's brief covers a diverse range of topics, including reentry mission approvals, leadership changes in the Space Development Agency, and innovative military satellite communications.
STARLINK-31249 (58838)
COSPAR: 2024-017N | Alt Name: Starlink 31249
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
58838
International Designator
2024-017N
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 11:36:31 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
312.21°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
98.96°
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-31249
Alternative Name
Starlink 31249
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 58838U 24017N 26200.48369773 .00000037 00000+0 13386-4 0 9997
2 58838 53.1586 312.2081 0001251 98.9613 261.1529 15.30190873140237
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-31249 is a Starlink v2 Mini communication satellite operated by SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on January 24, 2024, from SLC4E at AFWTR 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 730 kilograms at launch and has a dry mass of 700 kilograms. It is equipped with Ku/Ka/E-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link for communication purposes, powered by solar arrays and batteries. Propulsion is provided by Argon ion thrusters.
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 7-11-13
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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