Space Brief 5 Apr 2025
Today's brief covers the new Space Force operations doctrine, international defense collaborations by the UAE, and satellite tracking technology innovations.
STARLINK-31220 (59039)
COSPAR: 2024-038S | Alt Name: Starlink 31220
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
February 25, 2024
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
59039
International Designator
2024-038S
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 19:17:00 GMT
Apogee
Calculating...
Perigee
Calculating...
Inclination
43.00°
Right Ascension
0.88°
Eccentricity
Calculating...
Argument of Perigee
271.53°
Period
94.27 min
Mean Motion
15.28 rev/day
Latitude
Calculating...
Longitude
Calculating...
Altitude
Calculating...
Velocity
Calculating...
Polar Plot
3D Visualization
Explore in the Catalog
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-31220
Alternative Name
Starlink 31220
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 59039U 24038S 26200.80348263 -.00000109 00000+0 55735-5 0 9997
2 59039 43.0022 0.8751 0001299 271.5329 88.5374 15.27574813134961
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The satellite STARLINK-31220 (OBJECT_ID: 2024-038S) is a Starlink V2M spacecraft configured as part of the Starlink v2 Mini series, owned by SpaceX. Launched on February 25, 2024, from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station's Launch Complex 40 (LC40), it used the Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite measures 0.3 meters in length and has a diameter of 4.1 meters with a span of 29 meters. It weighs 700 kilograms dry and had a launch mass of 730 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka/E-band payload, optical inter-satellite link, solar arrays for power generation, and batteries, the satellite uses Argon ion thrusters for propulsion. Its primary mission is communication as part of the Starlink Group 6-39-17 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 6-39-17
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
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
Space Brief 28 Jun 2025
Today's brief covers a Pentagon review of satellite launch options, Kongsberg's completed maritime satellite network, York's new satellite launch, DARPA's project cancellation, and more.
Space Brief 16 Oct 2024
In today's briefing: China accelerates its satellite megaconstellation. A comprehensive ESA-led optical data network is in the works, marking a key step in satellite communications. NASA's Artemis II crew visits Ohio in preparation for their lunar journey. SpaceX's record-breaking rocket launches continue. Plus, insights into nuclear rockets that could drastically shorten Mars missions.
X Report 20 Dec 2024
SpaceX gears up for multiple significant missions while managing a Crew Dragon delay. Vast Space partners with SpaceX for ISS missions, and Lunar landers prepare for lift-offs.
X Report 1 Jul 2025
SpaceX gears up for an exciting July with a doubleheader launch planned for the east coast and ongoing advancements in Starlink technology.
X Report 17 May 2025
SpaceX gains regulatory approval for a new Starship test flight, further expands its role in U.S. defense, and successfully launches 26 additional Starlink satellites. United Airlines also rolls out Starlink Wi-Fi on its flights.
Version 10.0.0 Release Notes
The latest update introduces 3D satellite FOV cones, advanced sensor capabilities, and enhanced timelines, improving the way users interact with satellite data.
X Report 24 Sep 2025
SpaceX prepares for the launch of significant NASA and NOAA missions, while Starship's 11th test flight edges closer.