Space Brief 8 Oct 2025
Today's brief covers key developments in satellite launches, missile defense strategies, advanced IoT satellite connectivity, and the projected growth of the satellite market driven by defense needs.
STARLINK-31307 (59089)
COSPAR: 2024-041R | Alt Name: Starlink 31307
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
February 29, 2024
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
59089
International Designator
2024-041R
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 07:30:40 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
43.00°
Right Ascension
287.20°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
265.02°
Period
94.27 min
Mean Motion
15.28 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-31307
Alternative Name
Starlink 31307
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 59089U 24041R 26200.31297007 .00000507 00000+0 27945-4 0 9993
2 59089 43.0022 287.1954 0001670 265.0180 95.0481 15.27573504134459
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-31307 is a Starlink V2M satellite with a configuration known as Starlink v2 Mini, manufactured by SPXS (SpaceX) and owned by the same entity. Launched on February 29, 2024, from Launch Complex 40 at the Air Force Eastern Test Range using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, this communication satellite has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length, 4.1 meters in diameter, and a span of 29 meters. It weighs 700 kilograms dry and had a launch mass of 730 kilograms. Equipped with a Ku/Ka/E-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link, the satellite is powered by solar arrays and batteries. Its motor system consists of Argon ion thrusters for maneuvering in orbit. The shape of the satellite is described as a box with a pan configuration.
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 6-40-16
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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