Space Brief 23 Dec 2025
Today's briefing covers the Long March 12A's first launch, a major advance in space radio communication, and highlights from key military developments impacting space operations.
STARLINK-32697 (62436)
COSPAR: 2024-251E | Alt Name: Starlink 32697
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
62436
International Designator
2024-251E
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 01:37:08 GMT
Apogee
Calculating...
Perigee
Calculating...
Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
85.02°
Eccentricity
Calculating...
Argument of Perigee
94.16°
Period
94.10 min
Mean Motion
15.30 rev/day
Latitude
Calculating...
Longitude
Calculating...
Altitude
Calculating...
Velocity
Calculating...
Polar Plot
3D Visualization
Explore in the Catalog
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-32697
Alternative Name
Starlink 32697
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 62436U 24251E 26200.06745740 .00010145 00000+0 35408-3 0 9991
2 62436 53.1595 85.0200 0001219 94.1581 265.9559 15.30209775 88069
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The satellite identified by NORAD_CAT_ID 62436 and OBJECT_ID 2024-251E is a Starlink V2M spacecraft operated by SpaceX (SPXS). It was launched on December 29, 2024, from AFWTR SLC4E using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length and 4.1 meters in diameter with a span of 29 meters. Its dry mass is 700 kg, and it had a launch mass of 730 kg. The shape of the spacecraft is described as "Box + pan," but details on its power source, purpose, and major events are not provided. It is part of the Starlink Group 11-3-05 payload and owned by SpaceX.
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 11-3-05
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
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
X Report 19 Dec 2025
A partial breakup incident involving a Starlink satellite raised concerns, while SpaceX continued its ambitious projects and launches.
X Report 11 Dec 2025
SpaceX has confirmed plans for an IPO and successfully launched multiple batches of Starlink satellites, advancing its mission for global internet coverage.
Katalyst Link Clears Tests for $500M SPARCS Rescue | KeepTrack Space Brief
Katalyst's Link spacecraft passes key testing milestone ahead of June 2026 launch to rescue NASA's $500M SPARCS telescope. In-space servicing mission will create trackable conjunction risk during approach and docking phase.
Space Brief 26 Oct 2024
Explore the recent signing of the Artemis Accords by Chile, Boeing's strategic considerations, and captivating space missions including China's satellite endeavors and the James Webb Space Telescope's latest discovery.
Today in Space History 2025
From Apollo's darkest days to humanity's first transmission from Venus, we spent 2025 remembering the missions that made modern spaceflight possible. Here's what we covered - and why we're committed to keeping this series going.
Air Force One Gets Starlink, Astrobotic Acquired | KeepTrack Space Brief
Trump's interim Air Force One—a $400M Boeing 747-8—equipped with Starlink for presidential communications. First confirmed LEO constellation use for White House comms.
Starship Flight 12 Summary: V3 Reaches Space, X Report 24 May 2026
Starship Flight 12 summary: V3 reached space May 22 and survived reentry despite one Raptor vacuum engine shutdown, with most test objectives complete.