Space Brief 15 Dec 2025
Today's highlights include multiple SpaceX Starlink launches, a successful Rocket Lab mission for JAXA, and a scheduled launch update from Kennedy Space Center.
STARLINK-31182 (59159)
COSPAR: 2024-044H | Alt Name: Starlink 31182
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
March 4, 2024
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
59159
International Designator
2024-044H
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 01:50:32 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
43.00°
Right Ascension
84.67°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
272.10°
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-31182
Alternative Name
Starlink 31182
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 59159U 24044H 26200.07676582 .00001424 00000+0 61247-4 0 9998
2 59159 43.0048 84.6735 0001462 272.0993 87.9692 15.27584442133693
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-31182 is a communication satellite under the Starlink v2 Mini configuration, operated by SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on March 4, 2024, from LC40 at AFETR using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, it has a dry mass of 700 kg and a launch mass of 730 kg. The satellite measures 0.3 meters in length with a diameter of 4.1 meters and spans up to 29 meters when deployed. It is equipped with Ku/Ka/E-band payload capabilities and an optical inter-satellite link, powered by solar arrays and batteries. Its mission involves providing communication services utilizing Argon ion thrusters for motorization.
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 6-41-08
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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