Space Brief 13 Aug 2025
Today's Space Brief covers the inaugural national security mission of ULA's Vulcan Centaur, the Space Force's 2026 budget insights, and shifts in military drone technology.
STARLINK-35940 (66617)
COSPAR: 2025-271A | Alt Name: N/A
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
66617
International Designator
2025-271A
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 10:07:30 GMT
Apogee
Calculating...
Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
248.19°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
85.41°
Period
94.11 min
Mean Motion
15.30 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-35940
Alternative Name
N/A
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 66617U 25271A 26200.42187674 .00007645 00000+0 26997-3 0 9999
2 66617 53.1570 248.1860 0000743 85.4057 274.7029 15.30199698 37733
Source: Celestrak
Summary
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
29.0
Dry Mass
530
Launch Mass
575
Shape
Box + pan
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Starlink Group 11-30-01
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
SPXS
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Starlink V2MO
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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