Space Brief 2 Oct 2025
Highlighting ExLabs' Space Force contract, Starlink advances, and developments in orbital communication tech.
STARLINK-3666 (51978)
COSPAR: 2022-025Y | Alt Name: Starlink 3666
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
March 9, 2022
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
51978
International Designator
2022-025Y
Decay Date
1/4/2025
Explore in the Catalog
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-3666
Alternative Name
Starlink 3666
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-3666 satellite, also known as Starlink 3666, is a communication spacecraft belonging to SpaceX's Starlink constellation launched on March 9, 2022. It was deployed from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Launch Pad LC40, using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter with a span of 9 meters, featuring solar arrays and batteries for power supply. Its dry mass is 275 kilograms while the launch mass was 297 kilograms. STARLINK-3666 is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload and optical inter-satellite link equipment, utilizing Krypton ion thrusters as its motor system. The satellite's shape can be described as a box with panels attached. Its mission and purpose are focused on providing communication services as part of the Starlink Group 4-10-23 constellation.
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 4-10-23
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
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
Space Brief 20 Jul 2025
Today's highlights include a SpaceX launch of Starlink satellites, a pivotal delivery to the Space Force, and significant Senate funding for NASA missions.
Crew-11 Astronauts Arrive in Houston After Historic ISS Evacuation | KeepTrack X Report
Crew-11 astronauts arrive in Houston following first-ever ISS medical evacuation. Starlink continues robust satellite deployment schedule with ongoing constellation expansion.
SpinLaunch's Kinetic Launch System
How a California startup's massive centrifuge could transform space access by eliminating rocket fuel, reducing costs by 70%, and enabling daily satellite launches - if it can overcome the physics of scaling from suborbital tests to orbital reality
X Report 9 Aug 2025
SpaceX's Crew-10 astronauts are set to return to Earth after a five-month mission, while the company prepares for the launch of 24 new Starlink satellites from Vandenberg Space Force Base.
Space Brief 24 Nov 2024
Today's briefing covers Blue Origin's New Glenn nearing its first launch, SpaceX's 400th Falcon 9 mission with Starlink satellites, advancements in space-based weather prediction, and more.
Starlink Debuts Super Bowl Ad, Falcon 9 Preps for Crew-12 | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX airs Starlink's first-ever Super Bowl ad to millions. Falcon 9 completes static fire test for Crew-12 launch on Feb 11. Falcon 9 resumed flights after engine investigation.
Skyroot's Vikram-1 Reaches Orbit, Breaks Indian Launch Monopoly, Space Brief 18 Jul 2026
Skyroot Aerospace's Vikram-1 rocket achieved orbit on July 18, becoming the first Indian commercial rocket to do so and breaking ISRO's launch monopoly.