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STARLINK-31438 (59234)
COSPAR: 2024-049D | Alt Name: Starlink 31438
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
March 16, 2024
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
59234
International Designator
2024-049D
Epoch
Mon, 20 Jul 2026 03:57:12 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
43.00°
Right Ascension
104.38°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
233.39°
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-31438
Alternative Name
Starlink 31438
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 59234U 24049D 26201.16472808 -.00000032 00000+0 83553-5 0 9993
2 59234 43.0009 104.3797 0000537 233.3876 126.6927 15.27575470132786
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The STARLINK-31438 satellite, also known as Starlink 31438 and part of the Starlink Group 6-44-04, is a communication satellite designed by SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on March 16, 2024, from Launch Pad LC39A at AFETR using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, it measures 0.3 meters in length and has a diameter of 4.1 meters with a span of 29 meters. The satellite weighs 700 kilograms dry and 730 kilograms at launch. Equipped with Ku/Ka/E-band payload and optical inter-satellite link capabilities, it uses solar arrays and batteries for power and Argon ion thrusters for propulsion.
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 6-44-04
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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