X Report 25 Dec 2025
Starlink reaches 9 million active users, while SpaceX prepares for upcoming missions with Flight 12 vehicles readying for 2026.
STARLINK-3043 (49179)
COSPAR: 2021-082BB | Alt Name: Starlink 3043
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
49179
International Designator
2021-082BB
Epoch
Sat, 04 Jul 2026 01:49:36 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
70.00°
Right Ascension
320.99°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
272.36°
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-3043
Alternative Name
Starlink 3043
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 49179U 21082BB 26185.07611358 .00001574 00000-0 13961-3 0 9996
2 49179 70.0001 320.9929 0002387 272.3582 87.7304 14.98337505264391
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The STARLINK-3043 satellite, also known as Starlink 3043, is a communication satellite operated by SPXS (SpaceX). Launched on September 14, 2021, from AFWTR SLC4E using the Falcon 9 launch vehicle, it belongs to the Starlink constellation. The satellite has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter, with a span of 9 meters due to its deployable components. It weighs 275 kilograms dry and 297 kilograms at launch. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities and optical inter-satellite links, STARLINK-3043 utilizes solar arrays and batteries for power generation and employs Krypton ion thrusters for maneuvering. Its shape is described as a box with an additional pan component, though specific details on its material composition or major events are not provided.
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 2-1-49
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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