X Report 18 Dec 2024
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STARLINK-31703 (59861)
COSPAR: 2024-098D | Alt Name: Starlink 31703
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
May 24, 2024
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
59861
International Designator
2024-098D
Decay Date
11/7/2024
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Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-31703
Alternative Name
Starlink 31703
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The Starlink-31703 satellite, also known as STARLINK-31703 or Starlink 31703, is a communication satellite part of the Starlink Group 6-63-04 launched on May 24, 2024. It was manufactured by SPXS (SpaceX) and uses Falcon 9 as its launch vehicle from LC39A at AFETR. The satellite has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length, 4.1 meters in diameter, and a span of 29 meters. Equipped with a Ku/Ka/E-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link, it also features Argon ion thrusters for propulsion and solar arrays along with batteries for power. The dry mass is 700 kg while the launch mass was 730 kg.
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 6-63-04
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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