X Report 9 Dec 2024
SpaceX's latest Starlink satellite launch boosts their constellation and Starship development progresses steadily.
FLOCK 4X-21 (51040)
COSPAR: 2022-002BJ | Alt Name: Flock 4x-21
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
January 13, 2022
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
51040
International Designator
2022-002BJ
Decay Date
8/12/2024
Explore in the Catalog
Basic Satellite Info
Name
FLOCK 4X-21
Alternative Name
Flock 4x-21
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
PLAN
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
FLOCK 4X-21 is a CubeSat (3U) satellite launched on January 13, 2022, from the AFETR launch site using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The spacecraft has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length and diameter, with a span of 0.3 meters, and it weighs 5.7 kilograms both dry and at launch. It is equipped with PS0, PS1 or PS2 imaging payload and solar cells for power generation alongside batteries. Manufactured by PLAN, the satellite's mission focuses on technology purposes and was deployed into space as part of a fleet likely aimed at Earth observation. Its operational lifespan is estimated to be approximately one year in an ISS orbit or 2-3 years in Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO).
Physical Characteristics
Length
0.3
Diameter
0.1
Span
0.3
Dry Mass
5.7
Launch Mass
5.7
Shape
Box+2 pan
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Dove 2485
Purpose
Technology
Mission
Technology
Manufacturer
PLAN
Life Expectancy
~ 1 year (ISS orbit); 2-3 years (SSO)
Bus
Cubesat 3U
Configuration
CubeSat (3U)
Motor
None (most); FEEP (#Flock-3p')
Equipment
PS0, PS1 or PS2 imaging payload
Power System
Solar cells, batteries
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
Space Brief 22 Nov 2025
Today's brief covers Blue Origin's national security mission, a new missile interceptor project by Space Force, developments with Starship boosters, and more.
GAO Warns Space Force Satellite Costs Rising, Workforce Cuts Add Risk | KeepTrack Space Brief
GAO flags growing cost problems across Space Force satellite portfolio with workforce reductions compounding risks to missile-warning constellations like NGG and SWAT.
Space Brief 14 Jul 2025
Today's briefing covers the latest developments in satellite intelligence funding, new mandates affecting space launch and missile defense, and the early conclusion of a private astronaut mission. We also discuss Firefly Aerospace's plans to go public and stunning imagery from NASA's Parker Solar Probe.
Boeing Starliner Grounded Until Mid-2027, NASA Warns | KeepTrack Space Brief
Boeing CST-100 Starliner faces up to one year delay before return-to-flight. NASA safety panel cites unresolved technical problems since mid-2024 crewed test.
X Report 11 Jun 2025
SpaceX successfully launched 23 Starlink satellites while facing delays in launching the Axiom Space mission due to a propellant leak. Additionally, new US broadband rules favor Starlink's expansion into rural markets.
U.S. GSSAP Executes GEO Handoff to Track China's Shijian-29 | KeepTrack Space Brief
U.S. GSSAP satellites execute coordinated GEO maneuvers for continuous surveillance of Chinese Shijian-29 spacecraft. Handoff approach maintains coverage with zero gaps.
X Report 24 Apr 2025
SpaceX continues its historic launch cadence, includes Starlink expansion and business strategies in focus.