Space Brief 9 Dec 2025
Today's edition covers significant military space developments, including DIU tech consolidation discussions, NDAA budget expansions, and new military commands.
STARLINK-3305 (50166)
COSPAR: 2021-125L | Alt Name: Starlink 3305
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
50166
International Designator
2021-125L
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 20:39:47 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
13.38°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
89.35°
Period
94.16 min
Mean Motion
15.29 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
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Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-3305
Alternative Name
Starlink 3305
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 50166U 21125L 26200.86096375 .00002989 00000+0 11582-3 0 9990
2 50166 53.1605 13.3789 0001157 89.3537 270.7596 15.29370004256572
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-3305 is a communication satellite identified by NORAD CAT ID 50166 and OBJECT ID 2021-125L under the Starlink constellation managed by SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on December 18, 2021, from AFWTR SLC4E using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, this satellite has dimensions of approximately 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter with a span of 9 meters. It weighs 270 kilograms dry and had a launch mass of 290 kilograms. The satellite is equipped with a Ku/Ka-band payload for communication purposes and optical inter-satellite link technology, along with solar arrays and batteries for power generation. Its propulsion system uses krypton ion thrusters for maneuvering in orbit.
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 4-4-11
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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