Space Brief 29 Nov 2024
Today's brief covers China's Beidou satellite plans, SpaceX's Starship advancements, potential Space Command HQ relocation, and more.
STARLINK-32128 (60272)
COSPAR: 2024-131T | Alt Name: Starlink 32128
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
July 27, 2024
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
60272
International Designator
2024-131T
Epoch
Sat, 18 Jul 2026 04:53:30 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
166.01°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
80.18°
Period
94.11 min
Mean Motion
15.30 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-32128
Alternative Name
Starlink 32128
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 60272U 24131T 26199.20382198 -.00001080 00000+0 -24343-4 0 9998
2 60272 53.1591 166.0110 0001420 80.1827 279.9334 15.30188420111700
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-32128, also known as Starlink 32128, is a communication satellite belonging to SpaceX (SPXS). It was launched on July 27, 2024, from LC39A at AFETR using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite measures 0.3 meters in length and has a diameter of 4.1 meters with a span of 29 meters. Equipped with 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 to generate power. The satellite's dry mass is 700 kg while its launch mass was 730 kg. It serves as part of the Starlink Group 10-9-18 constellation mission aimed at enhancing global communication networks.
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 10-9-18
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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