Space Brief 28 Sep 2025
Today's highlights include China's latest satellite launches, Blue Origin's expansion plans, and Purdue University's groundbreaking suborbital mission with Virgin Galactic.
STARLINK-31221 (58896)
COSPAR: 2024-020W | Alt Name: Starlink 31221
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
58896
International Designator
2024-020W
Decay Date
10/8/2025
Explore in the Catalog
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-31221
Alternative Name
Starlink 31221
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-31221 satellite, also known as Starlink 31221, is a communication satellite belonging to the Starlink v2 Mini configuration and manufactured by SPXS (SpaceX). It was launched on January 29, 2024, from Space Launch Complex 4E at AFWTR using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The spacecraft has dimensions of approximately 0.3 meters in length, a diameter of 4.1 meters, and spans up to 29 meters with its deployed components. It features an Argon ion thruster for propulsion and is equipped with a Ku/Ka/E-band payload and optical inter-satellite link system for communication purposes. The satellite has a dry mass of 700 kg and was launched with a total mass of 730 kg, powered by solar arrays and batteries.
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 7-12-21
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
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
Space Brief 23 Mar 2025
Discover today's fascinating space events, from exceptional aurora displays to potential exomoon formations, alongside intriguing satellite insights.
Falcon 9 Booster Hits Record 35th Flight | KeepTrack X Report
A Falcon 9 booster sets a reusability record on its 35th flight during the Starlink 10-35 mission, the constellation's 53rd dedicated launch.
SpaceX Lofts 45 Payloads Including Korean CAS500-2 | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX's Falcon 9 rideshare lifted 45 satellites including South Korea's CAS500-2 Earth observer from Vandenberg at 0700 UTC May 3.
DROID.002 - Turion Space's Eyes on the Orbital Junkyard
A 90-kilogram spacecraft with iodine thrusters and two Australian-built cameras is quietly building the case that tracking space debris is a business worth billions - and that a four-year-old startup from Irvine can own it.
Space Brief 25 Oct 2025
Today's brief covers significant growth forecasts for global defense satellite communications, the integration of hypersonic missiles, cyber authority expansion in the Army, and more pivotal military developments.
Space Force Completes First Tactical Orbital Intercept | KeepTrack Space Brief
U.S. Space Force executes first tactical orbital intercept under Victus Haze mission using commercial spacecraft. Rendezvous and proximity operations now operationally demonstrated.
Space Brief 2 Apr 2025
DARPA's accidental SpaceX detection highlights Earth as a natural sensor, while SpaceX's Fram2 launches into a polar orbit. Helsinki's defense budget rise hints at increased military satellite activity.