Space Brief 26 Oct 2025
Today's brief covers a new Space Force contract for advanced tracking systems, innovative debris removal strategies, pivotal new satellite launches, and significant updates in air quality tracking from orbit.
STARLINK-2229 (47992)
COSPAR: 2021-024R | Alt Name: Starlink 2229
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
March 24, 2021
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
47992
International Designator
2021-024R
Decay Date
2/25/2025
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-2229
Alternative Name
Starlink 2229
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The Starlink satellite identified by NORAD CAT ID 47992 and OBJECT ID 2021-024R was launched on March 24, 2021, from LC40 at the Air Force Eastern Test Range (AFETR) using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It belongs to SpaceX (SPXS), with a dry mass of 248 kilograms and a launch mass of 260 kilograms. The satellite has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and 9 meters in span. Its shape is described as "Box + pan." It operates for communication purposes and is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload (all) and optical inter-satellite links on a few prototypes. The power system includes solar arrays and batteries, while it uses Krypton ion thrusters for propulsion.
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
0.2
Diameter
2.8
Span
9
Dry Mass
248
Launch Mass
260
Shape
Box + pan
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Starlink V1.0-L22-16
Purpose
Communication
Mission
Communication
Manufacturer
SPXS
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Starlink
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Krypton ion thrusters
Equipment
Ku/Ka-band payload (all), optical inter-satellite links (a few prototypes)
Power System
Solar arrays, batteries
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
X Report 11 Dec 2024
SpaceX advances with new Starship engine tests and celebrates a festive launch at Vandenberg. Jared Isaacman's NASA nomination brings excitement and scrutiny.
X Report 20 Feb 2025
SpaceX and Rocket Lab make headlines with simultaneous launches, while Musk's Starliner comments stir controversy.
Space Brief 12 Dec 2025
Today's space brief highlights the U.S. Space Force's new satellite naming scheme, the Air Force Secretary's warnings on China's space advances, BAE Systems' DARPA award, strategies for future space defense, the importance of GEO satellite refueling, and Blue Origin's plans for Space Force certification.
Space Brief 27 Aug 2024
Today's highlights include the destruction of ABL Space Systems' rocket due to engine leaks, Firefly Aerospace's lunar lander pre-launch tests, and insights on U.S. military's space domain awareness enhancements.
Musk Locks In SpaceX Control With Trillion-Dollar Stake | KeepTrack X Report
Elon Musk moves to make himself unfireable at SpaceX as AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon back a rival D2D joint venture challenging Starlink Mobile.
China's Shenlong Spaceplane Releases Mystery Object | KeepTrack Space Brief
China's Shenlong spaceplane released an unidentified object in orbit, drawing scrutiny amid U.S. Space Force Victus Haze RPO demonstrations. Tracking data critical.
Space Brief 27 Nov 2024
Space highlights include a debut launch of ZhuQue-2E, Firefly's lunar lander timeline, semiconductor funding for satellites, and ISS debris avoidance.