Space Brief 26 Aug 2025
Today's space news highlights include U.S. military satellite deployments, innovative AI aboard the Chinese space station, and breakthroughs in interplanetary communications.
STARLINK-32493 (62025)
COSPAR: 2024-213T | Alt Name: Starlink 32493
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
62025
International Designator
2024-213T
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 10:51:11 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
274.31°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
92.43°
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-32493
Alternative Name
Starlink 32493
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 62025U 24213T 26200.45221737 .00015985 00000+0 48312-3 0 9996
2 62025 53.1590 274.3069 0001057 92.4253 267.6870 15.34406635 93352
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-32493 is a Starlink V2M satellite launched by SpaceX (SPXS) on November 18, 2024, from Vandenberg Space Force Test Range (AFWTR), SLC4E launch pad, using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The spacecraft has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length and 4.1 meters in diameter with a span of 29 meters. It has a dry mass of 700 kilograms and was launched with a mass of 730 kilograms. Its shape is described as "Box + pan." The satellite's owner and manufacturer are SpaceX (SPXS), and it is part of the Starlink Group 9-12-18 payload.
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 9-12-18
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
SPXS
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Starlink V2M
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
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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