STARLINK-31901 (59793)

COSPAR: 2024-093M | Alt Name: Starlink 31901

DECAYED

Image

Additional Sources

Launch Details

Launch Date

May 18, 2024

Launch Site

Cape Canaveral Space Force Station

Launch Pad

LC40

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

59793

International Designator

2024-093M

Decay Date

3/29/2025

Explore in the Catalog

Starlink V2M bus SpaceX Starlink constellation United States satellites Payloads

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-31901

Alternative Name

Starlink 31901

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary

The STARLINK-31901 satellite, also known as Starlink 31901, is a communication satellite belonging to the Starlink v2 Mini configuration and part of the Starlink Group 6-59-12 payload. It was launched on May 18, 2024, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Launch Complex 40 (LC40) using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle by SpaceX (SPXS). The satellite measures 0.3 meters in length and has a diameter of 4.1 meters with a span of 29 meters. It weighs 700 kilograms when dry and had a launch mass of 730 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka/E-band payload, an optical inter-satellite link, Argon ion thrusters for propulsion, and solar arrays combined with batteries for power generation, the satellite is designed to provide communication services. Its shape consists of a box structure with additional pan elements.

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

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 6-59-12

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

Satellite Articles

View All Posts »

Learn more about satellites and other related topics.

Space Force Awards Orbital AMTI to 9 Companies | KeepTrack Space Brief

Space Force confirmed 9 companies won orbital Air Moving Target Indication contracts. Capability shifts airborne surveillance to satellites for expanded coverage and survivability.

X Report 17 Dec 2024

SpaceX executes a rapid response GPS mission for the U.S. Space Force, Starlink extends its reach with a beta smartphone connectivity service by T-Mobile, and Starship approaches its seventh launch with readiness milestones.

Space Brief 3 Oct 2025

Today's Space Brief delves into military satellite advancements and significant contract awards for space platforms, alongside pivotal European missile warning systems.

Andøya Spaceport

Europe's Arctic gateway to orbit. How Norway's Andøya Spaceport is positioning itself as the continent's answer to launch congestion - and what the failed Isar Aerospace test flight means for the road ahead.

X Report 16 May 2025

Today's brief highlights the launch of United Airlines' Starlink Wi-Fi on passenger flights, updates on Starship development, and SpaceX's push to position Starlink as a GPS alternative in recent FCC discussions.

Space Brief 28 Jan 2025

Today's highlights include Space Force's budget shifts, China's new commercial lunar collaboration, and SpaceX's latest Starlink launch.

Space Brief 21 Jun 2025

Today's brief highlights a Pentagon satellite network challenge, the expanding use of AI in military strategy, and advancements in commercial launch vehicle production.

Space Brief 27 Aug 2025

Today's key space events include SpaceX's launch of the secretive X-37B military drone, XTAR's U.S. defense market strategy, and China's space station AI upgrade.