Space Brief 2 Oct 2025
Highlighting ExLabs' Space Force contract, Starlink advances, and developments in orbital communication tech.
STARLINK-3373 (51122)
COSPAR: 2022-005U | Alt Name: Starlink 3373
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
January 19, 2022
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
51122
International Designator
2022-005U
Decay Date
7/4/2024
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Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-3373
Alternative Name
Starlink 3373
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-3373 satellite, also known as Starlink 3373, is owned and operated by SpaceX (SPXS). It was launched on January 19, 2022, from Launch Complex 39A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite measures 0.2 meters in length with a diameter of 2.8 meters and a span of 9 meters. Its dry mass is 275 kilograms, and it was launched with a total mass of 297 kilograms. It is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload for communication purposes and an optical inter-satellite link. The satellite uses krypton ion thrusters as its motor system and solar arrays along with batteries for power. Its mission is focused on providing communication services.
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
275
Launch Mass
297
Shape
Box + pan
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Starlink Group 4-6-19
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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