STARLINK-31418 (59251)

COSPAR: 2024-049W | Alt Name: Starlink 31418
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-31418 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

March 16, 2024

Launch Pad

LC39A

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

59251

International Designator

2024-049W

Decay Date

3/17/2025

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-31418

Alternative Name

Starlink 31418

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
The satellite STARLINK-31418 (OBJECT_ID: 2024-049W) is a Starlink v2 Mini communication satellite manufactured by SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on March 16, 2024, from LC39A at Kennedy Space Center using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, it has a dry mass of 700 kg and measures 0.3 meters in length with a diameter of 4.1 meters and spans up to 29 meters when deployed. Equipped with Ku/Ka/E-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link, the satellite is powered by solar arrays and batteries and uses Argon ion thrusters for propulsion. The satellite's shape is described as "Box + pan" and it belongs to the Starlink Group 6-44-21 constellation.

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 6-44-21

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

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