Space Brief 13 Feb 2025
Today's brief covers significant advancements in space satellite launches, military spending impacts on space, and notable developments from the Space Force and SpaceX.
STARLINK-36677 (68178)
COSPAR: 2026-050M | Alt Name: N/A
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
March 14, 2026
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
68178
International Designator
2026-050M
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 17:53:35 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
11.07°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
87.72°
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-36677
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 68178U 26050M 26200.74554501 .00016609 00000+0 50158-3 0 9997
2 68178 53.1615 11.0715 0001398 87.7204 272.3958 15.34401232 20932
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 10-48-12
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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