Van Allen Probe A Reenters March 10 After 14 Years | KeepTrack Space Brief
NASA's Van Allen Probe A (1,300 lbs) reenters today after 14 years studying Earth's radiation belts. Most debris will burn up; ocean impact statistically likely.
STARLINK-31429 (59003)
COSPAR: 2024-036F | Alt Name: Starlink 31429
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
59003
International Designator
2024-036F
Decay Date
10/28/2024
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Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-31429
Alternative Name
Starlink 31429
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
STARLINK-31429 is a Starlink v2 Mini satellite, part of the Starlink Group 7-15-06 constellation, launched on February 23, 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 dry and had a launch mass of 730 kilograms, powered by solar arrays and batteries. Equipped with Ku/Ka/E-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link, it uses Argon ion thrusters for propulsion. The mission purpose is communication.
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 7-15-06
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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