Space Brief 30 Aug 2025
Today's briefing covers the latest satellite communications advancements, a secretive military launch by SpaceX, and new space defense organizational structures.
STARLINK-11478 [DTC] (62557)
COSPAR: 2025-006D | Alt Name: Starlink 11478
Image
![STARLINK-11478 [DTC] Satellite Image](/images/sat/starlink.jpg)
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
January 10, 2025
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
62557
International Designator
2025-006D
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 15:12:19 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
43.00°
Right Ascension
64.59°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
266.26°
Period
91.67 min
Mean Motion
15.71 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-11478 [DTC]
Alternative Name
Starlink 11478
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 62557U 25006D 26200.63355573 .00103468 00000+0 79778-3 0 9997
2 62557 42.9991 64.5927 0001226 266.2648 93.8079 15.70901795 87352
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The satellite identified by NORAD_CAT_ID 62557 and OBJECT_ID 2025-006D is a Starlink V2M model launched on January 10, 2025, from the Afit Space Force Station (AFETR) LC40 launch pad 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, reflecting its box plus panel design. It has a dry mass of 700 kilograms and was launched with a total mass of 730 kilograms. Manufactured by SpaceX (SPXS), the satellite is part of the Starlink Group 12-12-04 payload and is owned by SpaceX as well. The satellite's primary purpose and power specifications are not specified in the provided data.
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 12-12-04
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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