Space Brief 10 Jun 2025
Today's brief covers increased Space Force funding, a renewed focus on nuclear power in space, a proposed US missile defense system, new defense budget revelations, and NATO's call for increased air defenses.
STARLINK-3073 (49135)
COSPAR: 2021-082F | Alt Name: Starlink 3073
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
49135
International Designator
2021-082F
Epoch
Sat, 04 Jul 2026 02:49:41 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
70.00°
Right Ascension
320.88°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
269.94°
Period
96.11 min
Mean Motion
14.98 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
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-3073
Alternative Name
Starlink 3073
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 49135U 21082F 26185.11784655 .00000610 00000-0 58919-4 0 9997
2 49135 70.0009 320.8809 0003016 269.9357 90.1457 14.98328841264412
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The STARLINK-3073 satellite, also known as Starlink 3073, is a communication satellite operated by SpaceX (SPXS). It was launched on September 14, 2021, from Space Launch Complex 4E at Vandenberg Space Force Base using 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. Equipped with a Ku/Ka-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link, it uses krypton ion thrusters for propulsion. Power is provided by solar arrays and batteries. With a launch mass of 297 kilograms and a dry mass of 275 kilograms, the satellite’s shape consists of a box structure with panels.
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
275
Launch Mass
297
Shape
Box + pan
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Starlink Group 2-1-05
Purpose
Communication
Mission
Communication
Manufacturer
SPXS
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Starlink
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Krypton ion thrusters
Equipment
Ku/Ka-band payload, optical inter-satellite link
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
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