Space Brief 5 Aug 2025
Today's Space Brief covers Lockheed Martin's pursuits in missile interception, key military advancements in space integration, the UK launch license for Skyrora, and much more.
STARLINK-3872 (52453)
COSPAR: 2022-049C | Alt Name: Starlink 3872
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
May 6, 2022
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
52453
International Designator
2022-049C
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 09:21:21 GMT
Apogee
Calculating...
Perigee
Calculating...
Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
197.60°
Eccentricity
Calculating...
Argument of Perigee
77.21°
Period
95.44 min
Mean Motion
15.09 rev/day
Latitude
Calculating...
Longitude
Calculating...
Altitude
Calculating...
Velocity
Calculating...
Polar Plot
3D Visualization
Explore in the Catalog
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-3872
Alternative Name
Starlink 3872
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 52453U 22049C 26200.38983300 .00000287 00000+0 36154-4 0 9999
2 52453 53.1592 197.6045 0001220 77.2112 282.9016 15.08833072231992
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The satellite named STARLINK-3872 (OBJECT_ID: 2022-049C) is a Starlink communication satellite operated by SpaceX (SPXS). It was launched on May 6, 2022, from the Kennedy Space Center's Launch Complex 39A (LC39A), using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The spacecraft has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter with a span of 9 meters. It had a launch mass of 297 kg and a dry mass of 220 kg, powered by solar arrays and batteries. Equipped with a Ku/Ka-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link, the satellite utilizes Krypton ion thrusters for propulsion. Its shape is described as "Box + pan," and it forms part of the Starlink Group 4-17-03 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
220
Launch Mass
297
Shape
Box + pan
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Starlink Group 4-17-03
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
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
Space Brief 2 Mar 2025
Today's brief highlights the successful landing of a private moon mission by Firefly Aerospace, a new simulator for the Spanish Air and Space Force, and the anticipated launch by Europe's Ariane 6. Plus, our Satellite Spotlight features the COSMOS 2484.
Artemis 2 Crew Returns After 50-Year Lunar Milestone | KeepTrack Space Brief
Artemis 2 splashdown marks first crewed lunar flyby since Apollo 17 in 1972. Four astronauts completed historic mission, validating systems for Artemis 3 landing attempt.
SpaceX Hits 600th Falcon 9 Launch, NASA SLS Leak Tests Struggle | KeepTrack Space Brief
SpaceX reaches 600th Falcon 9 launch with Starlink 17-13 from Vandenberg. NASA SLS hydrogen leak repairs only partially successful. New book explores forces shaping space.
Space Brief 11 Sep 2024
A recap of notable space events including the Soyuz MS-26 launch to the ISS, Polaris Dawn's altitude achievement, and satellite tracking updates.
Falling Space Debris Risk to Aircraft Grows, North Korea Tests Hypersonic Missiles | KeepTrack Space Brief
Experts warn falling space debris risk to aircraft is increasing. North Korea tests advanced hypersonic missiles. Space Force seeks launch providers for Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg pads.
Space Brief 30 Oct 2025
Today's brief explores rising investments in space with defense ties, potential Space Force-NRO coordination, and more, offering insight into current military and defense satellite dynamics.
Space Brief 16 Jun 2025
Today's update covers NASA's Ax-4 mission preparations, ESA's satellite imaging program, Ursa Major's military contract, and China's expanding nuclear arsenal.