Space Brief 4 Dec 2025
Today's brief covers SpaceX's Starship launch approval, Antares' nuclear funding, and shifts in global space defense strategies.
STARLINK-32180 (60374)
COSPAR: 2024-138V | Alt Name: Starlink 32180
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
60374
International Designator
2024-138V
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 23:52:56 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
54.38°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
86.67°
Period
94.01 min
Mean Motion
15.32 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-32180
Alternative Name
Starlink 32180
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 60374U 24138V 26200.99510052 -.00001156 00000+0 -25503-4 0 9992
2 60374 53.1613 54.3839 0001474 86.6670 273.4500 15.31697465110899
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The satellite named STARLINK-32180 (OBJECT_ID: 2024-138V) is a Starlink v2 Mini model belonging to the US company SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on August 4, 2024, from AFWTR SLC4E using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, it has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length and 4.1 meters in diameter with a span of 29 meters. The satellite's dry mass is 700 kg, and its launch mass was 730 kg. It is equipped with Ku/Ka/E-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link for communication purposes. Its propulsion system uses Argon ion thrusters, while power is supplied by solar arrays and batteries. The satellite's shape is described as a box with a pan configuration.
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 11-1-20
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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