Space Brief 23 Dec 2025
Today's briefing covers the Long March 12A's first launch, a major advance in space radio communication, and highlights from key military developments impacting space operations.
STARLINK-3573 (51794)
COSPAR: 2022-017AC | Alt Name: Starlink 3573
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
51794
International Designator
2022-017AC
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 22:30:37 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.20°
Right Ascension
77.80°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
267.65°
Period
87.81 min
Mean Motion
16.40 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-3573
Alternative Name
Starlink 3573
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 51794U 22017AC 26200.93793579 .05934423 12337-4 42018-3 0 9998
2 51794 53.2005 77.7961 0012185 267.6456 92.3197 16.39936800244414
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-3573 is a communication satellite belonging to SpaceX's Starlink constellation. Launched on February 25, 2022, from AFWTR SLC4E using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, the spacecraft has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length and a diameter of 2.8 meters with a span of 9 meters. It weighs 275 kilograms dry and had a launch mass of 297 kilograms. The satellite is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link, powered by solar arrays and batteries. Its propulsion system uses krypton ion thrusters for maneuvering in orbit.
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 4-11-27
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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