Space Brief 17 Aug 2025
Today's space news features major US Space Force satellite launches, regulatory changes supporting private space initiatives, and updates on SpaceX's Starship advances.
STARLINK-32648 (62301)
COSPAR: 2024-239A | Alt Name: Starlink 32648
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
62301
International Designator
2024-239A
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 11:07:09 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
288.03°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
77.63°
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-32648
Alternative Name
Starlink 32648
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 62301U 24239A 26200.46330184 -.00000880 00000+0 -14922-4 0 9990
2 62301 53.1585 288.0333 0001159 77.6256 282.4876 15.34407453 89759
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The satellite named STARLINK-32648 (OBJECT_ID: 2024-239A) is a Starlink V2M model launched on December 13, 2024, from AFWTR's SLC4E launch pad using a Falcon 9 vehicle. It belongs to SPXS and is part of the Starlink Group 11-2-01 payload. The satellite has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length, a diameter of 4.1 meters, and a span of 29 meters. Its dry mass is 700 kg with a launch mass of 730 kg. The shape of the satellite is described as "Box + pan."
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 11-2-01
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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