Space Brief 30 Mar 2025
Today's highlights include Rocket Lab joining the US Space Force's national security launch program, SpaceX's upcoming Starlink deployment, China's successful EVA, and intriguing science aboard SpaceX's Fram2 mission.
STARLINK-32198 (60321)
COSPAR: 2024-133W | Alt Name: Starlink 32198
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
60321
International Designator
2024-133W
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 22:56:25 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
41.80°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
99.54°
Period
93.85 min
Mean Motion
15.34 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-32198
Alternative Name
Starlink 32198
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 60321U 24133W 26200.95585147 .00000444 00000+0 24292-4 0 9993
2 60321 53.1608 41.7964 0001497 99.5408 260.5764 15.34393329111997
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-32198 is a communication satellite under the Starlink v2 Mini configuration, manufactured by SPXS and owned by SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on July 28, 2024, from AFWTR SLC4E using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, this satellite measures 0.3 meters in length with a diameter of 4.1 meters and a span of 29 meters. Its dry mass is 700 kilograms while its launch mass was 730 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka/E-band payload, an optical inter-satellite link, and Argon ion thrusters for propulsion, the satellite uses solar arrays and batteries for power generation. The satellite's design includes a box shape with pan configuration. It is part of the Starlink Group 9-4-21 mission aimed at enhancing communication services.
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 9-4-21
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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