Space Brief 29 Jun 2025
Today's space brief covers SpaceX's new contract with the U.S. Space Force, multiple Starlink launches, Rocket Lab's rapid launch success, and the final mission of Japan's H-IIA rocket.
STARLINK-3361 (51151)
COSPAR: 2022-005AZ | Alt Name: Starlink 3361
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
January 19, 2022
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
51151
International Designator
2022-005AZ
Decay Date
11/12/2025
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Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-3361
Alternative Name
Starlink 3361
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-3361 satellite, also known as Starlink 3361, is part of SpaceX's Starlink constellation and serves a communication mission. Launched on January 19, 2022, from LC39A at AFETR using the Falcon 9 launch vehicle, this satellite has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, a diameter of 2.8 meters, and a span of 9 meters. It weighs 275 kilograms dry and had an initial launch mass of 297 kilograms. The spacecraft is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload for communication, optical inter-satellite link capability, and uses krypton ion thrusters as its motor system. Power is provided by solar arrays and batteries. The satellite's shape can be described as a box with a pan configuration. It operates under the ownership of SpaceX (SPXS), which also manufactured it.
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 4-6-48
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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