X Report 10 Dec 2025
SpaceX celebrates significant milestones in satellite launches and contemplates a historic IPO while actively participating in the competitive landscape of space technology and services.
STARLINK-31673 (59262)
COSPAR: 2024-050J | Alt Name: Starlink 31673
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
59262
International Designator
2024-050J
Decay Date
7/1/2025
Explore in the Catalog
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-31673
Alternative Name
Starlink 31673
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The Starlink-31673 satellite, designated 2024-050J under NORAD, is a communication satellite belonging to SpaceX (SPXS). It was launched on March 19, 2024, from AFWTR SLC4E using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. This Starlink v2 Mini configuration 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, featuring a solar array and battery power system along with an Argon ion thruster motor for propulsion. Equipped with a Ku/Ka/E-band payload and optical inter-satellite link, Starlink-31673 operates as part of the Starlink Group 7-16-09 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.
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 7-16-09
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.
The Day Humanity Got Its First Close-up of the Future Apollo Landing Site
Sixty years ago, a pioneering spacecraft called Ranger 8 captured thousands of detailed photographs of the lunar surface before intentionally crashing into the Moon, helping pave the way for humanity's first steps on another world
Space Brief 14 Jan 2025
Today's brief focuses on Blue Origin's scrubbed New Glenn launch, SpaceX's reusability milestone, and a warning from the US Air Force about China's advancements in space capabilities. We're also highlighting a key satellite in orbit.
X Report 24 Dec 2024
SpaceX advances with Bandwagon-2 mission, gains approval for Starship Flight 7, and continues Starlink expansion.
X Report 4 Aug 2025
SpaceX achieves significant milestones with the launch of 28 Starlink satellites and the final landing of the LZ-1 pad, marking key moments in their ongoing mission to expand satellite connectivity.
Deep Space Advanced Radar Capability (DARC)
How a groundbreaking radar network is transforming our ability to monitor threats in deep space while strengthening international security partnerships
Space Brief 15 Dec 2025
Today's highlights include multiple SpaceX Starlink launches, a successful Rocket Lab mission for JAXA, and a scheduled launch update from Kennedy Space Center.
X Report 30 Jun 2025
SpaceX is exploring alternative options for static fire tests amid infrastructure setbacks, emphasizing their adaptability in operations.