Space Brief 20 Jan 2025
Today's Space Brief highlights SpaceX's return to Starlink launches, a call to address space debris, and changes in NASA leadership under the new Trump administration.
STARLINK-3684 (52124)
COSPAR: 2022-029AN | Alt Name: Starlink 3684
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
March 19, 2022
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
52124
International Designator
2022-029AN
Decay Date
1/4/2025
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Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-3684
Alternative Name
Starlink 3684
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-3684 satellite, also known as Starlink 3684, is a communication spacecraft operated by SpaceX (SPXS). Launched on March 19, 2022, from Launch Complex 40 at the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, it is part of the Starlink Group 4-12-37 constellation. The satellite has dimensions of approximately 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter with a span of 9 meters, suggesting solar arrays or deployable structures. It weighs 275 kilograms dry and had a launch mass of 297 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities and an optical inter-satellite link, it is designed for communication purposes. Its propulsion system includes krypton ion thrusters, and its power source consists of solar arrays and batteries. The satellite’s shape can be described as box-shaped with a pan configuration, indicating the presence of deployable elements such as solar panels or antennas.
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 4-12-37
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
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