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STARLINK-31618 (59528)
COSPAR: 2024-073T | Alt Name: Starlink 31618
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
April 17, 2024
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
59528
International Designator
2024-073T
Decay Date
12/3/2025
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Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-31618
Alternative Name
Starlink 31618
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The Starlink V2M satellite, identified by NORAD CAT ID 59528 and OBJECT ID 2024-073T, was launched on April 17, 2024, from the Kennedy Space Center LC39A using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The spacecraft is part of the Starlink v2 Mini configuration and measures approximately 0.3 meters in length with a diameter of 4.1 meters and spans 29 meters when its deployable components are extended. It has a dry mass of 700 kilograms and was launched with a total mass of 730 kilograms. The satellite is equipped with Ku/Ka/E-band payload capabilities, an optical inter-satellite link, and Argon ion thrusters for maneuvering. Power is provided by solar arrays and batteries. Owned by SpaceX (SPXS), the mission purpose is communication as part of the Starlink Group 6-51-18 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 6-51-18
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
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