Space Brief 1 Jun 2025
Today's highlights cover critical satellite launches including SpaceX's GPS III mission, advancements in SATCOM technology, and changes in NASA leadership.
STARLINK-31616 (59270)
COSPAR: 2024-050S | Alt Name: Starlink 31616
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
59270
International Designator
2024-050S
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 15:30:24 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
287.22°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
99.93°
Period
93.85 min
Mean Motion
15.34 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-31616
Alternative Name
Starlink 31616
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 59270U 24050S 26200.64611307 -.00000624 00000+0 -73398-5 0 9990
2 59270 53.1610 287.2199 0001294 99.9328 260.1821 15.34391651130760
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The satellite STARLINK-31616 (OBJECT_ID: 2024-050S) is a Starlink v2 Mini communication satellite launched on March 19, 2024, from AFWTR SLC4E using the Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length and 4.1 meters in diameter with a span of 29 meters, featuring solar arrays and batteries for power. The satellite weighs 730 kg at launch and its dry mass is 700 kg. Equipped with Ku/Ka/E-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link, it also utilizes Argon ion thrusters as its motor system. Manufactured by SPXS (SpaceX), this satellite operates in a box + pan shape configuration for communication purposes.
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 7-16-17
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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