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.
STARLINK-31594 (59332)
COSPAR: 2024-057N | Alt Name: Starlink 31594
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
March 25, 2024
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
59332
International Designator
2024-057N
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 22:26:08 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
43.00°
Right Ascension
171.52°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
280.19°
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-31594
Alternative Name
Starlink 31594
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 59332U 24057N 26200.93482385 -.00004771 00000+0 -16392-3 0 9996
2 59332 43.0006 171.5192 0000332 280.1889 79.8925 15.27593585129931
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-31594 is a communication satellite belonging to Starlink Group 6-46-13 and classified under the BUS type as Starlink V2M. It was launched on March 25, 2024, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 40 (LC40) using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length and 4.1 meters in diameter with an overall span of 29 meters. It operates with dry mass at 700 kilograms and had a launch mass of 730 kilograms. Its payload includes a Ku/Ka/E-band system along with optical inter-satellite link capabilities. The satellite is powered by solar arrays and batteries, and it utilizes Argon ion thrusters for propulsion. Manufactured by SpaceX (SPXS), the satellite's purpose is to support communication services as part of the Starlink 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 6-46-13
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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