Space Brief 1 Nov 2025
Today's brief covers the future of military space operations, ESA's potential defense role, significant developments in satellite communications, and SpaceX's response to Artemis 3 comments.
STARLINK-36168 (68677)
COSPAR: 2026-077R | Alt Name: N/A
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
68677
International Designator
2026-077R
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 09:28:20 GMT
Apogee
Calculating...
Perigee
Calculating...
Inclination
97.28°
Right Ascension
71.21°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
101.49°
Period
93.91 min
Mean Motion
15.33 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-36168
Alternative Name
N/A
Type
Payload
Status
Unknown
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 68677U 26077R 26200.39468485 .00006462 00000+0 20231-3 0 9991
2 68677 97.2848 71.2069 0001903 101.4923 258.6534 15.33447001 15346
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 17-21-16
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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