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Today, we explore substantial U.S. defense contracts awarded for space launches, ESA's enigmatic Euclid images release, and SpaceX missions covering satellite launches and astronaut reentries.
STARLINK-31717 (59385)
COSPAR: 2024-062M | Alt Name: Starlink 31717
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
59385
International Designator
2024-062M
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 18:23:40 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
0.72°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
93.85°
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-31717
Alternative Name
Starlink 31717
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 59385U 24062M 26200.76643769 .00000865 00000+0 36718-4 0 9999
2 59385 53.1602 0.7152 0000956 93.8520 266.2592 15.34398562129900
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-31717, also known as Starlink 31717, is a communication satellite part of the Starlink v2 Mini configuration and manufactured by SPXS (SpaceX). It was launched on April 2, 2024, from AFWTR SLC4E using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length, 4.1 meters in diameter, and spans 29 meters when its components are deployed. Its dry mass is 700 kilograms, with a launch mass of 730 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka/E-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link, the satellite relies on solar arrays and batteries for power and uses Argon ion thrusters as propulsion. The mission's purpose is to provide communication services, contributing to SpaceX's constellation of satellites.
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 7-18-12
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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