Space Brief 7 Dec 2025
Today's highlights include a record-breaking event at the International Space Station, significant funding for hypersonic missile production, and several key military developments impacting space strategy.
STARLINK-3696 (51965)
COSPAR: 2022-025K | Alt Name: Starlink 3696
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
March 9, 2022
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
51965
International Designator
2022-025K
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 13:45:43 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
143.58°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
88.15°
Period
94.01 min
Mean Motion
15.32 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-3696
Alternative Name
Starlink 3696
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 51965U 22025K 26200.57342520 -.00000066 00000+0 96542-5 0 9998
2 51965 53.1601 143.5788 0001438 88.1471 271.9695 15.31697486241034
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The satellite identified by NORAD_CAT_ID 51965 and OBJECT_ID 2022-025K is part of the Starlink constellation operated by SPXS (SpaceX). Launched on March 9, 2022, from Cape Canaveral's LC40 pad using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, this communication satellite has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter with a span of 9 meters. The dry mass is recorded at 275 kg while the launch mass was 297 kg. It is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities and an optical inter-satellite link, powered by solar arrays and batteries. Propulsion for this satellite is provided by krypton ion thrusters, and its shape resembles a box with a panel configuration. The mission of STARLINK-3696 (Alt Name: Starlink 3696) is to enhance communication services as part of the Starlink Group 4-10-10 payload group.
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 4-10-10
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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