Space Brief 31 Dec 2024
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STARLINK-32304 (60738)
COSPAR: 2024-152U | Alt Name: Starlink 32304
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
August 28, 2024
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
60738
International Designator
2024-152U
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 18:27:36 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
14.88°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
85.84°
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-32304
Alternative Name
Starlink 32304
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 60738U 24152U 26200.76917551 -.00000703 00000+0 -96759-5 0 9991
2 60738 53.1637 14.8764 0001141 85.8370 274.2763 15.34393175107076
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The Starlink V2M satellite designated as STARLINK-32304 was launched on August 28, 2024, from LC40 at AFETR using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It is part of the Starlink v2 Mini configuration with dimensions of 0.3 meters in length and 4.1 meters in diameter. The satellite has a span of 29 meters and weighs 730 kilograms at launch, reducing to 700 kilograms dry mass. Equipped with Ku/Ka/E-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link, it is powered by solar arrays and batteries. The mission's purpose is communication, utilizing Argon ion thrusters for its motor system. Manufactured by SPXS, the satellite is owned by SpaceX (SPXS) and forms part of the Starlink Group 8-6-19 payload constellation for communication purposes.
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 8-6-19
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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