Space Brief 21 Jul 2025
Today's brief covers SpaceX's latest Starlink launch, fascinating exoplanet discoveries, and strategic lunar developments by China and South Korea.
STARLINK-11286 [DTC] (61050)
COSPAR: 2024-164A | Alt Name: Starlink 11286
Image
![STARLINK-11286 [DTC] Satellite Image](/images/sat/starlink.jpg)
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
61050
International Designator
2024-164A
Epoch
Mon, 20 Jul 2026 05:12:59 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
17.97°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
90.15°
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-11286 [DTC]
Alternative Name
Starlink 11286
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 61050U 24164A 26201.21735137 -.00000462 00000+0 10450-5 0 9996
2 61050 53.1595 17.9726 0000850 90.1516 269.9599 15.69710078106234
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The STARLINK-11286 [DTC], also known as Starlink 11286, is a communication satellite based on the Starlink v2 Mini configuration and manufactured by SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on September 13, 2024, from AFWTR SLC4E using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, it has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length, 4.1 meters in diameter, and spans 29 meters. The satellite's dry mass is 700 kg with a launch mass of 730 kg. It features D2C payload capabilities and optical inter-satellite links powered by solar arrays and batteries, complemented by Argon ion thrusters for propulsion. Its mission is to enhance communication networks as part of the Starlink Group 9-6-01 constellation.
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 9-6-01
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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