Space Brief 23 Feb 2025
SpaceX launches Starlink satellites from both coasts, while first 3D atmospheric map of an exoplanet reveals extreme weather patterns, and Starlink missions push total count over 8,000 satellites.
STARLINK-2232 (48578)
COSPAR: 2021-041AB | Alt Name: Starlink 2232
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
May 15, 2021
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
48578
International Designator
2021-041AB
Epoch
Sat, 04 Jul 2026 05:49:56 GMT
Apogee
Calculating...
Perigee
Calculating...
Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
304.46°
Eccentricity
Calculating...
Argument of Perigee
80.61°
Period
94.01 min
Mean Motion
15.32 rev/day
Latitude
Calculating...
Longitude
Calculating...
Altitude
Calculating...
Velocity
Calculating...
Polar Plot
3D Visualization
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-2232
Alternative Name
Starlink 2232
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 48578U 21041AB 26185.24300928 .00019019 00000-0 62281-3 0 9992
2 48578 53.1597 304.4647 0001078 80.6107 279.5016 15.31713324283137
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The satellite named STARLINK-2232 (OBJECT_ID: 2021-041AB) is a Starlink communication satellite launched by SpaceX (SPXS) on May 15, 2021, from LC39A at AFETR using the Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It has a dry mass of 248 kilograms and was deployed with a launch mass of 260 kilograms. The satellite measures 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and has a span of 9 meters. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities (all), optical inter-satellite links (on prototypes), and krypton ion thrusters for propulsion, it uses solar arrays and batteries for power. The spacecraft's shape is described as "Box + pan" and it operates in space for communication purposes.
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-L26-26
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
Map
Next Pass
Azimuth Elevation Time (Local)
Start Azimuth
Max Elevation
Stop Azimuth
Time Until
Pass Duration
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
NASA OIG Flags Starship Artemis Gaps as Falcon 9 Eyes 8-Launch Week | KeepTrack X Report
NASA's Inspector General warns of crew survival analysis gaps in Starship lunar lander program as Falcon 9 prepares to lead 8 global launches this week.
Space Brief 1 Mar 2025
Today's Space Brief covers reentries, the impact of NOAA dismissals on space weather tracking, a strategic academic partnership probing cosmic mysteries, and a newly unveiled space motto.
Space Force Eyes Asteroid Mining, Clashes With Congress on R-GPS | KeepTrack Space Brief
Space Force sees strategic value in asteroid mining. Congress pushes back on R-GPS phase-out over jamming risks. BlackSky expands Gen 3 defense contracts.
Space Brief 22 Oct 2025
Today's briefing covers space-based missile defense, AI maritime surveillance, and new governmental shifts impacting the defense sector.
X Report 3 Jul 2025
In a landmark achievement, SpaceX celebrated its 500th Falcon 9 launch by deploying 27 Starlink satellites while simultaneously advancing its reuse strategy with record-breaking milestones.
SpaceX Launches Third GPS Satellite Reassigned From ULA | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX successfully launches GPS satellite for Space Force — third consecutive GPS mission switched from ULA. EBAD demonstrates payload release module on Falcon 9 rideshare mission.
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.