Space Brief 2 Sep 2024
Key topics: SpaceX resumes Falcon 9 launches, mysterious Starliner sounds, and upcoming space policy events. Detailed tracking info for EGYPTSAT A.
STARLINK-31684 (59492)
COSPAR: 2024-071J | Alt Name: Starlink 31684
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
April 13, 2024
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
59492
International Designator
2024-071J
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 17:51:58 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
43.00°
Right Ascension
321.59°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
257.49°
Period
94.27 min
Mean Motion
15.28 rev/day
Latitude
Calculating...
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-31684
Alternative Name
Starlink 31684
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 59492U 24071J 26200.74442279 .00001294 00000+0 56534-4 0 9994
2 59492 43.0025 321.5854 0001344 257.4925 102.5776 15.27580737128317
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The STARLINK-31684 satellite, also known as Starlink 31684, is a communication satellite manufactured by SPXS and owned by the same entity. It was launched on April 13, 2024, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station using Falcon 9 launch vehicle from LC40. The spacecraft has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length and 4.1 meters in diameter with a span of 29 meters, weighing 730 kilograms at launch and 700 kilograms dry mass. It is part of the Starlink v2 Mini configuration and carries a Ku/Ka/E-band payload along with an optical inter-satellite link for communication purposes. The satellite's propulsion system includes Argon ion thrusters and it generates power through solar arrays complemented by batteries. Its mission focuses on providing global communication services.
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 6-49-09
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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