Space Brief 2 Dec 2025
Today's brief covers China's classified Shijian-28 satellite launch, AI-designed spacecraft records, and upcoming global launch activities.
STARLINK-3559 (51860)
COSPAR: 2022-022J | Alt Name: Starlink 3559
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
March 3, 2022
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
51860
International Designator
2022-022J
Epoch
Mon, 20 Jul 2026 08:00:01 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
133.11°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
85.25°
Period
94.88 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-3559
Alternative Name
Starlink 3559
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 51860U 22022J 26201.33335647 .00055457 00000+0 27180-2 0 9998
2 51860 53.1589 133.1080 0002625 85.2496 7.5145 15.17627525 5703
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-3559 is a communication satellite launched by SpaceX (SPXS) on March 3, 2022, from Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39A using the Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter with a span of 9 meters. The satellite has a dry mass of 275 kg and a launch mass of 297 kg, featuring Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities along with an optical inter-satellite link for communication purposes. Its propulsion system is powered by krypton ion thrusters, while solar arrays and batteries provide power.
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 4-9-09
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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