Space Brief 1 Jun 2025
Today's highlights cover critical satellite launches including SpaceX's GPS III mission, advancements in SATCOM technology, and changes in NASA leadership.
STARLINK-3601 (51804)
COSPAR: 2022-017AN | Alt Name: Starlink 3601
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
51804
International Designator
2022-017AN
Epoch
Mon, 20 Jul 2026 08:00:01 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
92.95°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
55.00°
Period
94.86 min
Mean Motion
15.18 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-3601
Alternative Name
Starlink 3601
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 51804U 22017AN 26201.33335647 .00003157 00000+0 16846-3 0 9998
2 51804 53.1605 92.9476 0001135 55.0047 339.7419 15.18041762 5767
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-3601 is a communication satellite belonging to the Starlink constellation and was launched by SpaceX (SPXS) on February 25, 2022, from AFWTR SLC4E using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The spacecraft has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length with a diameter of 2.8 meters and a span of 9 meters. Its dry mass is recorded at 275 kilograms, and it was launched with a total mass of 297 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload and optical inter-satellite link technology, the satellite uses Krypton ion thrusters for its motor and solar arrays along with batteries for power supply. The mission of STARLINK-3601 is to provide communication services, and it has a box + pan shape 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
275
Launch Mass
297
Shape
Box + pan
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Starlink Group 4-11-37
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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