Space Brief 8 Nov 2025
Today's Space Brief covers major developments in Pentagon procurement methods, strategic satellite intelligence advancements, and increasing interest in drone technology within the defense sector.
STARLINK-31517 (59213)
COSPAR: 2024-046N | Alt Name: Starlink 31517
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
59213
International Designator
2024-046N
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 20:58:32 GMT
Apogee
Calculating...
Perigee
Calculating...
Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
258.83°
Eccentricity
Calculating...
Argument of Perigee
93.05°
Period
93.85 min
Mean Motion
15.34 rev/day
Latitude
Calculating...
Longitude
Calculating...
Altitude
Calculating...
Velocity
Calculating...
Polar Plot
3D Visualization
Explore in the Catalog
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-31517
Alternative Name
Starlink 31517
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 59213U 24046N 26200.87399270 .00000744 00000+0 33168-4 0 9990
2 59213 53.1585 258.8288 0001089 93.0543 267.0585 15.34384927133312
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The STARLINK-31517 satellite, also known as Starlink 31517, is a communication satellite designed under the Starlink v2 Mini configuration and manufactured by SPXS in the United States. It was launched on March 11, 2024, from AFWTR using the Falcon 9 launch vehicle at SLC4E. The satellite has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length and a diameter of 4.1 meters with a span of 29 meters. Its dry mass is 700 kg, and it had a launch mass of 730 kg. It is equipped with a Ku/Ka/E-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link for communication purposes, powered by solar arrays and batteries, and uses Argon ion thrusters as its motor system.
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 7-17-13
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.
SpaceX Unveils Space Traffic Management System, Bahamas Landings Resume | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX unveils new space traffic management system for orbital coordination. Bahamas grants permission for rocket landings after Starship debris pause. Musk proposes lunar satellite catapult.
SpaceX IPO Raises $75B, SPCX Surges 20% on Day One | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX debuted on Nasdaq as SPCX at $135/share, raising a record $75B and pushing Elon Musk's net worth past $1 trillion for the first time.
Space Brief 23 Jan 2025
Today's briefing covers the U.S. Space Force's substantial investments in commercial satellite services, a strategic military shift, Chinese space station upgrades, and NASA's policy changes.
SpaceX Resumes Starlink Deployments After Satellite Issues | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX launches 29 Starlink satellites in first deployment since recent satellite issues. Falcon 9 also delivers Italy's COSMO-SkyMed CSG-FM3 from Vandenberg. Starship plans solidified for 2026.
Space Brief 3 Nov 2024
Today focuses on Blue Origin's preparation for New Glenn's debut, SpaceX Crew-9's ISS maneuver, the importance of U.S.-China cooperation in space, and breathtaking ISS photography.
White House Orders Space Nuclear Power by 2028 | KeepTrack Space Brief
White House directs NASA and Pentagon to field space nuclear power systems by 2028, with DoD demonstration required by 2031. Game-changer for military satellite power budgets.
Space Force Awards $1.8B Andromeda Program to 14 Firms | KeepTrack Space Brief
Space Force selects 14 companies for $1.8 billion Andromeda program to replace GSSAP geosynchronous surveillance satellites with commercial alternatives through 2036.