Space Brief 21 Jan 2025
Today's Space Brief highlights a SpaceX launch of Starlink satellites, international efforts to tackle space debris, and innovative lunar power solutions from China.
STARLINK-11318 [DTC] (61252)
COSPAR: 2024-175K | Alt Name: Starlink 11318
Image
![STARLINK-11318 [DTC] Satellite Image](/images/sat/starlink.jpg)
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
61252
International Designator
2024-175K
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 19:22:22 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
125.22°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
85.60°
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-11318 [DTC]
Alternative Name
Starlink 11318
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 61252U 24175K 26200.80720822 -.00000419 00000+0 13972-5 0 9995
2 61252 53.1594 125.2203 0001075 85.6018 274.5122 15.69707307105285
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The STARLINK-11318 [DTC], also known as Starlink 11318, is a communication satellite launched on September 25, 2024, from the AFWTR site at SLC4E using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. Part of the Starlink v2 Mini series manufactured by SPXS, it has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length and 4.1 meters in diameter with a span of 29 meters. The satellite features a dry mass of 700 kg and a launch mass of 730 kg, equipped with D2C payload and optical inter-satellite link for communication purposes. It is powered by solar arrays and batteries, and its propulsion system uses Argon ion thrusters to maintain its orbit.
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 9-8-10
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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