Space Brief 14 May 2025
Today's edition covers China's latest launches in their classified satellite programs, ongoing discussions in the U.S. Senate on missile defense, and the ever-escalating space debris crisis threatening national security.
STARLINK-31655 (59257)
COSPAR: 2024-050D | Alt Name: Starlink 31655
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
59257
International Designator
2024-050D
Decay Date
2/7/2026
Explore in the Catalog
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-31655
Alternative Name
Starlink 31655
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
STARLINK-31655, also known as Starlink 31655, is a communication satellite belonging to the Starlink v2 Mini configuration series. It was launched on March 19, 2024, from AFWTR using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The spacecraft has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length and 4.1 meters in diameter with a span of 29 meters. It carries a Ku/Ka/E-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link for communication purposes. At launch, the satellite had a mass of 730 kilograms and was manufactured by SPXS. Its propulsion system includes Argon ion thrusters, while its power supply is provided by solar arrays and batteries. The satellite's shape can be described as a box with a pan design.
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 7-16-04
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
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
X Report 21 Dec 2024
SpaceX prepares for Bandwagon-2 rideshare mission launch, while FAA updates license for Starship's next flight; Crew Dragon mission faces delays.
Space Brief 21 Oct 2025
Today's brief covers the latest in satellite technology contracts, China's rocket launch ambitions, and new launch authorizations paving the way for space exploration advancements.
SpaceX IPO Raises $75B at $135/Share on Nasdaq Debut | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX's historic $75B IPO priced at $135/share launches SPCX on Nasdaq at a $1.77 trillion valuation — the largest IPO in history.
GPS III SV-10 Moves to Falcon 9 After Vulcan Grounded | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX claims a 2nd GPS III launch as ULA's Vulcan investigation stalls, while ESA charters a Crew Dragon ISS mission and Starlink hits 30 launches in 2026.
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.
Space Brief 22 Aug 2025
SpaceX's X-37B spaceplane launch, featuring advanced tech, highlights today’s space events. The launch of the first reprogrammable navigation satellite by the US Space Force is another significant milestone.
Space Brief 23 May 2025
Today's briefing highlights a significant increase in the Pentagon's AI budget, upgrades at the Tiangong space station, cyber threats to satellite operations, and the Moon and Venus conjunction.