Space Brief 8 Feb 2025
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STARLINK-31761 (59615)
COSPAR: 2024-080Q | Alt Name: Starlink 31761
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
April 28, 2024
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
59615
International Designator
2024-080Q
Epoch
Thu, 07 May 2026 03:53:29 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
42.98°
Right Ascension
30.73°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
228.66°
Period
88.82 min
Mean Motion
16.21 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-31761
Alternative Name
Starlink 31761
Type
Payload
Status
Partially operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 59615U 24080Q 26127.16214144 .05273590 88185-5 22600-2 0 9999
2 59615 42.9807 30.7317 0019940 228.6603 131.2568 16.21215187113880
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The STARLINK-31761 satellite, also known as Starlink 31761, is a Starlink v2 Mini communication satellite launched by SpaceX on April 28, 2024, from the Air Force Eastern Test Range using Falcon 9 from Launch Complex 40. It has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length, 4.1 meters in diameter, and spans 29 meters when fully deployed. The satellite weighs 730 kilograms at launch with a dry mass of 700 kilograms. Equipped with a Ku/Ka/E-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link, it uses Argon ion thrusters for propulsion and solar arrays combined with batteries for power. Its shape is described as box-like with a pan design.
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 6-54-15
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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