Space Brief 20 Dec 2025
Today's Space Brief focuses on multi-billion dollar contracts for missile-tracking satellites, developments in optical nuclear clock research, and innovative drone projects for military collaboration.
STARLINK-3227 (49765)
COSPAR: 2021-115AT | Alt Name: Starlink 3227
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
December 2, 2021
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
49765
International Designator
2021-115AT
Epoch
Thu, 02 Jul 2026 20:19:22 GMT
Apogee
Calculating...
Perigee
Calculating...
Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
340.04°
Eccentricity
Calculating...
Argument of Perigee
99.80°
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-3227
Alternative Name
Starlink 3227
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 49765U 21115AT 26183.84678643 .00004486 00000-0 16763-3 0 9995
2 49765 53.1571 340.0402 0004246 99.7995 260.3485 15.29376027253091
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The Starlink-3227 satellite, also known as Starlink 3227, is operated by SpaceX and was launched on December 2, 2021, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 40 aboard a Falcon 9 rocket. It belongs to the Starlink Group 4-3-42 constellation and has a dry mass of 270 kg and launch mass of 290 kg. The satellite measures 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and spans 9 meters when its solar arrays are deployed. It is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities and an optical inter-satellite link for communication purposes. Starlink-3227 uses krypton ion thrusters for propulsion and relies on solar arrays and batteries for power generation.
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
270
Launch Mass
290
Shape
Box + pan
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Starlink Group 4-3-42
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
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
Vulcan Grounding Threatens WGS-11 and OPIR Launches | KeepTrack Space Brief
ULA's Vulcan rocket grounded, imperiling Space Force WGS-11 communications satellite and Next-Gen OPIR missile warning payload. Both missions lack backup launch options.
Falling Space Debris Risk to Aircraft Grows, North Korea Tests Hypersonic Missiles | KeepTrack Space Brief
Experts warn falling space debris risk to aircraft is increasing. North Korea tests advanced hypersonic missiles. Space Force seeks launch providers for Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg pads.
X Report 22 Aug 2025
SpaceX successfully launched the U.S. Space Force's eighth X-37B spaceplane mission while preparing for an upcoming Starship launch. Meanwhile, the company continues to expand its Starlink satellite constellation.
X Report 18 Sep 2025
SpaceX gears up for a busy week with new Starship testing and enhanced Starlink capabilities on the horizon.
Vulcan Centaur Launches GSSAP Surveillance Satellites for Space Force | KeepTrack Space Brief
ULA Vulcan Centaur launches USSF-87 with two GSSAP surveillance satellites to near-GEO orbit. NRO expands commercial imaging. Integrate raises $17M for classified platform.
Space Brief 9 Mar 2025
Today's highlights include delayed satellite launches, SpaceX's Florida Starship expansion, a historic mission by Europe's Ariane 6, and NASA's twin missions to explore the ends of the Earth and the universe.
SpaceX Stacks Super Heavy for Starship's 12th Test Flight | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX stacks Super Heavy booster in preparation for Starship's 12th test flight. Three launches planned this week including ISRO rideshare mission. Musk shares AI and robotics predictions on podcast.