Space Brief 15 May 2025
Today's brief highlights a nuclear battery startup's funding boost, advisory board additions in the space sector, and key military updates impacting space operations.
STARLINK-2666 (48666)
COSPAR: 2021-044AE | Alt Name: Starlink 2666
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
May 26, 2021
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
48666
International Designator
2021-044AE
Epoch
Sat, 04 Jul 2026 00:10:01 GMT
Apogee
Calculating...
Perigee
Calculating...
Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
293.91°
Eccentricity
Calculating...
Argument of Perigee
76.80°
Period
94.16 min
Mean Motion
15.29 rev/day
Latitude
Calculating...
Longitude
Calculating...
Altitude
Calculating...
Velocity
Calculating...
Polar Plot
3D Visualization
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-2666
Alternative Name
Starlink 2666
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 48666U 21044AE 26185.00696032 .00001441 00000-0 62226-4 0 9991
2 48666 53.1563 293.9127 0001251 76.8024 283.3116 15.29371470281615
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-2666 is a communication satellite, part of the Starlink series manufactured by SpaceX (SPXS). It was launched on May 26, 2021, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Launch Complex 40 aboard a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter with a span of 9 meters, featuring solar arrays and batteries for power. It weighs approximately 260 kilograms at launch and carries a dry mass of 248 kilograms equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities and optical inter-satellite links (prototypes). The satellite uses krypton ion thrusters for propulsion and has a box plus pan shape configuration, primarily used 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-L28-29
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.
Space Brief 9 Feb 2025
Today's highlights include Rocket Lab's successful 2025 kick-off launch, SpaceX's upcoming Starlink deployment, and a significant military satellite contract competition.
Boeing Ramps Up Missile-Tracking Sensor Production for Military Sats | KeepTrack Space Brief
Boeing opens new facility to boost missile-tracking sensor production for military satellites. Tory Bruno joins Blue Origin for national security projects. 25 Starlink sats launched.
Space Brief 25 Nov 2024
Today's brief highlights the need for better space debris management, multiple SpaceX Starlink launches, and NASA's upcoming lunar cargo delivery plans.
Earthquake Sensors Repurposed to Track Space Debris Reentry | KeepTrack Space Brief
Scientists use earthquake sensors to track space debris reentry via sonic boom detection. SpaceX launches 25 Starlink satellites in seventh mission of 2026. NASA and DOE partner for lunar nuclear power.
China Caps Record Year With 92 Orbital Launches, New Reusable Rocket Planned | KeepTrack Space Brief
China hits record 92 orbital launches in 2025. Vandenberg opens new launch site for providers. Former ULA CEO Tory Bruno joins Blue Origin for national security projects.
China's 75 Unusual GEO Maneuvers Flagged by CSIS | KeepTrack Space Brief
CSIS analysis identifies 75 unusual orbital maneuvers by Chinese GEO satellites over 10 years, consistent with military reconnaissance. Track GEO objects via KeepTrack.
SpaceX Launches 500th Starlink Satellite of 2026, Microsoft Partnership Announced | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX launches 500th Starlink satellite of 2026 on 540th reused booster flight. Microsoft partners with Starlink for rural internet expansion. NASA reveals first ISS medical evacuation details.