Demystifying the USSPACECOM Two-Line Element Set Format
Discover the history and significance of Two-Line Element Sets (TLEs) in satellite tracking. Dive into their components, applications, and how they are evolving to meet future space challenges.
STARLINK-31818 (59741)
COSPAR: 2024-090M | Alt Name: Starlink 31818
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
May 13, 2024
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
59741
International Designator
2024-090M
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 05:18:34 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
43.00°
Right Ascension
160.89°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
267.67°
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-31818
Alternative Name
Starlink 31818
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 59741U 24090M 26200.22123168 -.00000182 00000+0 29233-5 0 9991
2 59741 43.0041 160.8892 0001542 267.6715 92.3960 15.27564967123557
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The Starlink-31818 satellite, designated OBJECT_ID 2024-090M, is a member of the Starlink v2 Mini configuration and was launched on May 13, 2024, from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station Launch Complex 40 using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The spacecraft measures 0.3 meters in length with a diameter of 4.1 meters and has a span of 29 meters due to its deployable components. It has a dry mass of 700 kilograms and was launched with a total mass of 730 kilograms. Equipped with a Ku/Ka/E-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link, the satellite uses Argon ion thrusters for propulsion and solar arrays along with batteries to power its systems. The mission purpose is communication, owned and operated by SpaceX (SPXS).
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 6-58-12
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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