Space Brief 18 Dec 2025
Today's updates cover Rocket Lab's launch for the U.S. Space Force, Digantara's major funding round, and discussions on national security in space.
STARLINK-31267 (59468)
COSPAR: 2024-068P | Alt Name: Starlink 31267
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
April 10, 2024
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
59468
International Designator
2024-068P
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 20:24:35 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
43.00°
Right Ascension
3.93°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
279.33°
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-31267
Alternative Name
Starlink 31267
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 59468U 24068P 26200.85040813 .00000370 00000+0 22975-4 0 9999
2 59468 43.0043 3.9278 0001766 279.3266 80.7386 15.27578361128785
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The STARLINK-31267 satellite, also known as Starlink 31267, is a communication satellite operated by SpaceX (SPXS). It was launched on April 10, 2024, from Launch Complex 40 at the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length and 4.1 meters in diameter, with a span of 29 meters. It weighs 730 kg at launch and has a dry mass of 700 kg. Equipped with Argon ion thrusters for propulsion and solar arrays with batteries for power generation, the satellite is configured as part of the Starlink v2 Mini series and carries a payload that includes Ku/Ka/E-band transmitters and an optical inter-satellite link. The mission aims to enhance communication capabilities through its orbital deployment.
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 6-48-14
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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