Space Brief 14 Dec 2024
Today’s Space Brief covers significant developments such as SpaceX’s latest Starlink launch, the US Space Force testing modular satellite technology, and key long-range missile tests by the Pentagon.
STARLINK-11238 [DTC] (60928)
COSPAR: 2024-155E | Alt Name: Starlink 11238
Image
![STARLINK-11238 [DTC] Satellite Image](/images/sat/starlink.jpg)
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
60928
International Designator
2024-155E
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 21:02:49 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
49.64°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
101.70°
Period
91.74 min
Mean Motion
15.70 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-11238 [DTC]
Alternative Name
Starlink 11238
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 60928U 24155E 26200.87696410 .00000806 00000+0 11504-4 0 9991
2 60928 53.1603 49.6351 0000942 101.7020 258.4104 15.69709420109219
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The Starlink V2M satellite, designated STARLINK-11238 [DTC] or Starlink 11238, was launched on August 31, 2024, from AFWTR SLC4E using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It belongs to the Starlink v2 Mini configuration and is owned by SpaceX (SPXS). The satellite has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length, 4.1 meters in diameter, and a span of 29 meters. Its dry mass is 700 kilograms with a launch mass of 730 kilograms. It features D2C payload capabilities and optical inter-satellite links for communication purposes. The satellite's power system includes solar arrays and batteries, and it uses Argon ion thrusters as its propulsion system.
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 9-5-05
Purpose
Communication
Mission
Communication
Manufacturer
SPXS
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Starlink V2M
Configuration
Starlink v2 Mini
Motor
Argon ion thrusters
Equipment
D2C 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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