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STARLINK-31944 (59872)
COSPAR: 2024-098Q | Alt Name: Starlink 31944
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
May 24, 2024
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
59872
International Designator
2024-098Q
Decay Date
8/15/2024
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Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-31944
Alternative Name
Starlink 31944
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
STARLINK-31944, also known as Starlink 31944, is a communication satellite designed under the Starlink v2 Mini configuration by SpaceX (SPXS). It was launched on May 24, 2024, from Launch Pad LC39A at AFETR using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The spacecraft has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length and 4.1 meters in diameter with a span of 29 meters. Weighing 730 kilograms at launch, it operates dry at 700 kilograms. Its payload includes Ku/Ka/E-band equipment along with an optical inter-satellite link for communication purposes, powered by solar arrays and batteries. The satellite uses Argon ion thrusters as its propulsion system and has a box plus pan shape.
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 6-63-15
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
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