STARLINK-3304 (50161)

COSPAR: 2021-125F | Alt Name: Starlink 3304

Image
STARLINK-3304 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

December 18, 2021

Launch Site

AFWTR

Launch Pad

SLC4E

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

50161

International Designator

2021-125F

Epoch

Sun, 19 Jul 2026 20:00:01 GMT

Apogee

Calculating...

Perigee

Calculating...

Inclination

53.16°

Right Ascension

24.53°

Eccentricity

Calculating...

Argument of Perigee

60.57°

Period

94.29 min

Mean Motion

15.27 rev/day

Latitude

Calculating...

Longitude

Calculating...

Altitude

Calculating...

Velocity

Calculating...

Polar Plot
3D Visualization
Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-3304

Alternative Name

Starlink 3304

Type

Payload

Status

Operational

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Latest TLEs
1 50161U 21125F   26200.83335647  .00035082  00000+0  13074-2 0  9997
2 50161  53.1591  24.5309 0001746  60.5725  26.3945 15.27145623  5588

Source: Celestrak

Summary
The STARLINK-3304 satellite, also known as Starlink 3304, is a communication satellite belonging to SpaceX's Starlink constellation. It was launched on December 18, 2021, from the Air Force Eastern Test Range (AFWTR) at SLC4E using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and 9 meters in span. It weighs approximately 270 kilograms dry and was launched with a mass of 290 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload and optical inter-satellite link for communication purposes, it utilizes solar arrays and batteries for power generation. The satellite's propulsion system consists of krypton ion thrusters, and its shape is described as box-shaped with a pan configuration.

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 4-4-06

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
This tool will help you track the satellite's position and predict its upcoming passes over your location. Simply input the coordinates or click the geolocation button to get started.
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.

Amazon vs SpaceX and the Battle for the Best Satellite Internet Service

Amazon vs SpaceX and the Battle for the Best Satellite Internet Service

SpaceX and Amazon Are Playing for Keeps to Control Satellite Broadband and Connect the World. But Is There Room for Both in the Orbit?

Space Brief 10 Dec 2024

Space Brief 10 Dec 2024

Today's highlights include a new 5G demonstration launch on Firefly, potential supply chain interruptions in the defense sector, and updates on Artemis and ULA launches.

Space Brief 22 Jan 2025

Space Brief 22 Jan 2025

Today's highlights include defense sector investments, major military contracts with Rocket Lab, and a glimpse at new American Innovation dollar coins featuring space achievements.

X Report 31 Oct 2025

X Report 31 Oct 2025

SpaceX prepares for its 100th Starlink launch while refining its lunar lander design for NASA's Artemis program amidst calls for architectural changes.

Space Brief 27 May 2025

Space Brief 27 May 2025

Today's Space Brief highlights advances in satellite communication for defense, regulatory changes for Starlink in South Africa, SpaceX's ongoing Starlink launches, and a significant contract for a Chinese satellite constellation.

X Report 15 Feb 2025

X Report 15 Feb 2025

SpaceX sets a reuse record with Falcon 9, advances Starship program, while Starlink influences satellite market dynamics.

X Report 23 Oct 2025

X Report 23 Oct 2025

SpaceX continues to break records with its Falcon 9 missions while facing public scrutiny from Elon Musk regarding NASA's leadership. Meanwhile, satellite spectrum battles heat up as Lynk Global and Omnispace prepare to merge.

Space Brief 26 Oct 2024

Space Brief 26 Oct 2024

Explore the recent signing of the Artemis Accords by Chile, Boeing's strategic considerations, and captivating space missions including China's satellite endeavors and the James Webb Space Telescope's latest discovery.