Space Brief 20 Jul 2025
Today's highlights include a SpaceX launch of Starlink satellites, a pivotal delivery to the Space Force, and significant Senate funding for NASA missions.
STARLINK-31450 (59006)
COSPAR: 2024-036J | Alt Name: Starlink 31450
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
59006
International Designator
2024-036J
Epoch
Mon, 20 Jul 2026 03:18:48 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
182.78°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
89.12°
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-31450
Alternative Name
Starlink 31450
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 59006U 24036J 26201.13806071 -.00002287 00000+0 -65119-4 0 9998
2 59006 53.1595 182.7794 0001172 89.1160 270.9975 15.30193854135607
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The STARLINK-31450 satellite, also known as Starlink 31450 and part of the Starlink Group 7-15-09 payload, is a communication satellite manufactured by SPXS (SpaceX). It was launched on February 23, 2024, from AFWTR SLC4E using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The spacecraft has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length and 4.1 meters in diameter with a span of 29 meters. Its dry mass is 700 kg and it weighs 730 kg at launch. Equipped with Ku/Ka/E-band payload, an optical inter-satellite link, and Argon ion thrusters for propulsion, the satellite's power system consists of solar arrays and batteries. It operates in a Box + pan shape configuration for communication purposes.
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 7-15-09
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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