STARLINK-31703 (59861)

COSPAR: 2024-098D | Alt Name: Starlink 31703
DECAYED

Image
STARLINK-31703 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

May 24, 2024

Launch Pad

LC39A

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

59861

International Designator

2024-098D

Decay Date

11/7/2024

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.
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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