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SpaceX launches multiple Starlink batches, FAA updates for Starship, and NASA plans lunar cargo deliveries involving SpaceX and Blue Origin.
STARLINK-3268 (50190)
COSPAR: 2021-125AL | Alt Name: Starlink 3268
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
50190
International Designator
2021-125AL
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 19:36:17 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
0.41°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
85.38°
Period
93.85 min
Mean Motion
15.34 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-3268
Alternative Name
Starlink 3268
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 50190U 21125AL 26200.81686441 .00001172 00000+0 45831-4 0 9999
2 50190 53.1612 0.4061 0001112 85.3788 274.7341 15.34395942256758
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The STARLINK-3268 satellite, also known as Starlink 3268, is part of the Starlink constellation and was launched on December 18, 2021, from Space Launch Complex 4E at AFWTR using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. With dimensions including a length of 0.2 meters, diameter of 2.8 meters, and span of 9 meters, the satellite has a dry mass of 270 kg and a launch mass of 290 kg. It is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities and an optical inter-satellite link for communication purposes. The satellite utilizes krypton ion thrusters for propulsion and solar arrays along with batteries for power generation. Owned by SpaceX (SPXS), STARLINK-3268 operates in a box plus pan shape configuration and was manufactured by the same entity.
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 4-4-35
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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