Space Brief 5 Sep 2025
Today's Space Brief delves into key military developments in space, including the Space Force's pioneering officer training and innovative small satellite communication strategies.
STARLINK-31322 (59168)
COSPAR: 2024-044S | Alt Name: Starlink 31322
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
March 4, 2024
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
59168
International Designator
2024-044S
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 17:11:58 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
43.00°
Right Ascension
81.73°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
269.30°
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-31322
Alternative Name
Starlink 31322
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 59168U 24044S 26200.71664492 .00001015 00000+0 46395-4 0 9999
2 59168 43.0036 81.7265 0000964 269.3017 90.7724 15.27583214133782
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-31322 is a communication satellite belonging to the Starlink v2 Mini configuration series under the Starlink Group 6-41-17 mission. Launched on March 4, 2024, from Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, it has an object ID of 2024-044S and NORAD CAT ID of 59168. The satellite measures 0.3 meters in length with a diameter of 4.1 meters and a span of 29 meters, featuring solar arrays and batteries for power. It weighs approximately 700 kg dry and had a launch mass of 730 kg. Equipped with Ku/Ka/E-band payload and optical inter-satellite links, it uses Argon ion thrusters as its propulsion system. The satellite is owned by SpaceX (SPXS) and was manufactured by the same entity.
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 6-41-17
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
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