Starlink 31268
Re-entered 13 Apr 2026Starlink 31268 (NORAD 59245, COSPAR 2024-049Q) was a US satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 13 Apr 2026, launched on 16 Mar 2024 on the Starlink Group 6-44 mission. It is catalogued as Starlink Group 6-44-15. It was operated by SpaceX as part of the Starlink 2M S2 programme. The spacecraft was built by SPXS on the Starlink V2M bus, with a mass of 730 kg. Like most satellites in low orbits, it was gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until re-entry. Historical record from Orbital Radar's satellite archive, cross-referenced with the live satellite catalogue.
Lifecycle
Specifications
Frequently asked questions
What happened to Starlink 31268?
Starlink 31268 re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 13 Apr 2026, ending a mission that began with its launch in 2024. Objects in low orbits are gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until they fall back and burn up on re-entry.
When did Starlink 31268 re-enter the atmosphere?
Starlink 31268 re-entered on 13 Apr 2026, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
How long was Starlink 31268 operational?
Starlink 31268 was operational for roughly 3 months, from 23 Nov 2025 to 3 Mar 2026.
Who operated and built Starlink 31268?
Starlink 31268 was operated by SpaceX and built by SPXS (US).