Space Brief 26 Aug 2024
Today's briefing covers an exciting new satellite launch, a significant reentry, and unexpected space debris from a fragmentation event.
STARLINK-31430 (59375)
COSPAR: 2024-062B | Alt Name: Starlink 31430
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
59375
International Designator
2024-062B
Epoch
Mon, 20 Jul 2026 04:17:33 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
1.16°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
78.61°
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-31430
Alternative Name
Starlink 31430
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 59375U 24062B 26201.17885757 .00001155 00000+0 45340-4 0 9993
2 59375 53.1627 1.1576 0000968 78.6070 281.5041 15.34384676129949
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The satellite named STARLINK-31430 (OBJECT_ID: 2024-062B) is a Starlink v2 Mini communication satellite manufactured by SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on April 2, 2024, from SLC4E at AFWTR using a 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. The satellite's dry mass is 700 kg, while its launch mass was 730 kg. It is equipped with a Ku/Ka/E-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link, powered by solar arrays and batteries. Its propulsion system includes Argon ion thrusters for maneuvering, and it operates within the Starlink Group 7-18-02 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 7-18-02
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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