STARLINK-3256 (50202)

COSPAR: 2021-125AY | Alt Name: Starlink 3256

Image

Additional Sources

Launch Details

Launch Date

December 18, 2021

Launch Site

AFWTR

Launch Pad

SLC4E

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

50202

International Designator

2021-125AY

Epoch

Sun, 19 Jul 2026 20:00:01 GMT

Apogee

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Perigee

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Inclination

53.16°

Right Ascension

4.67°

Eccentricity

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Argument of Perigee

83.88°

Period

94.18 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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Starlink bus SpaceX Starlink constellation United States satellites Payloads

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-3256

Alternative Name

Starlink 3256

Type

Payload

Status

Operational

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Latest TLEs

1 50202U 21125AY  26200.83335647  .00437380  00000+0  14434-1 0  9990

2 50202  53.1634   4.6692 0001231  83.8849 201.4332 15.29041800  5838

Source: Celestrak

Summary

The STARLINK-3256 satellite, also known as Starlink 3256, is a communication satellite belonging to SpaceX's Starlink constellation. It was launched on December 18, 2021, from Space Launch Complex 4E (SLC4E) at AFWTR using the Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has dimensions of approximately 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter with a span of 9 meters, indicating an extended structure such as solar arrays. It has a dry mass of 270 kg and a launch mass of 290 kg. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload for communication and optical inter-satellite links, it utilizes krypton ion thrusters for maneuvering and employs solar arrays and batteries for power supply. The satellite's shape is described as "Box + pan," suggesting a box-shaped body with additional extensions or panels.

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

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 4-4-47

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

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