Space Brief 25 Aug 2024
Today's Space Brief covers NASA's decision on Starliner, SpaceX's preparations for the Polaris Dawn mission, and updates on various space activities. Also featured is an in-depth look at the Hubble Space Telescope.
STARLINK-3301 (50169)
COSPAR: 2021-125P | Alt Name: Starlink 3301
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
50169
International Designator
2021-125P
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 20:52:29 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
10.98°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
78.81°
Period
93.79 min
Mean Motion
15.35 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-3301
Alternative Name
Starlink 3301
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 50169U 21125P 26200.86978176 -.00000430 00000+0 -14274-5 0 9995
2 50169 53.1618 10.9767 0000873 78.8070 281.3031 15.35403488256625
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-3301 is a communication satellite operated by SpaceX (SPXS) and launched on December 18, 2021, from AFWTR's SLC4E launch pad using the Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and a span of 9 meters. It weighs 270 kilograms dry with a launch mass of 290 kilograms. Equipped with a Ku/Ka-band payload and optical inter-satellite link, it features Krypton ion thrusters for propulsion and solar arrays along with batteries for power supply. The satellite is part of the Starlink Group 4-4-14 constellation and has a box shape with an additional 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.
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 4-4-14
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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