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STARLINK-3260 (50205)
COSPAR: 2021-125BB | Alt Name: Starlink 3260
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
50205
International Designator
2021-125BB
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 19:40:05 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
335.68°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
87.37°
Period
95.44 min
Mean Motion
15.09 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-3260
Alternative Name
Starlink 3260
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 50205U 21125BB 26200.81950661 -.00000057 00000+0 14518-4 0 9994
2 50205 53.1605 335.6801 0001303 87.3716 272.7425 15.08834401257107
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The STARLINK-3260 satellite, also known as Starlink 3260, is a communication satellite operated by SPXS (SpaceX). It was launched on December 18, 2021, from the AFWTR SLC4E launch pad using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The spacecraft has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter with a span of 9 meters. Its dry mass is recorded at 270 kilograms, while its launch mass was 290 kilograms. It carries a Ku/Ka-band payload along with an optical inter-satellite link for communication purposes. The satellite is powered by solar arrays and batteries and uses krypton ion thrusters as its motor system. Its shape is described as box-like 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.
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 4-4-50
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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