Space Brief 21 Apr 2025
Today's briefing highlights SpaceX's recent launch of spy satellites, a US Space Force contract for deep space tracking, and advancements in quantum communications in space.
STARLINK-31547 (59364)
COSPAR: 2024-060S | Alt Name: Starlink 31547
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
March 31, 2024
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
59364
International Designator
2024-060S
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 18:24:12 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
43.00°
Right Ascension
222.59°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
279.95°
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-31547
Alternative Name
Starlink 31547
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 59364U 24060S 26200.76680682 -.00000350 00000+0 -31913-5 0 9993
2 59364 42.9998 222.5904 0001185 279.9472 80.1246 15.27582771130391
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The Starlink-31547 satellite, also known as STARLINK-31547, was launched on March 31, 2024, from the Air Force Eastern Test Range (AFETR) using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle from Launch Pad LC40. It belongs to the Starlink v2 Mini configuration with the BUS type Starlink V2M. The satellite has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length and 4.1 meters in diameter, with an operational span of 29 meters. Weighing 730 kilograms at launch, it has a dry mass of 700 kilograms and is equipped with solar arrays and batteries for power generation. Its payload includes a Ku/Ka/E-band communications system and an optical inter-satellite link. The satellite uses Argon ion thrusters for propulsion and was manufactured by SPXS (SpaceX) 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 6-45-17
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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