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Today's brief covers an increase in Chinese satellite launches, the operational status of the Space Force's ATLAS software, and a significant fundraising event in the defense sector.
STARLINK-3917 (52588)
COSPAR: 2022-051BE | Alt Name: Starlink 3917
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
52588
International Designator
2022-051BE
Epoch
Mon, 20 Jul 2026 03:15:46 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
244.25°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
81.46°
Period
95.44 min
Mean Motion
15.09 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-3917
Alternative Name
Starlink 3917
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 52588U 22051BE 26201.13595067 .00000021 00000+0 19415-4 0 9991
2 52588 53.1586 244.2518 0001025 81.4618 278.6490 15.08833020231585
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-3917 is a communication satellite from the Starlink constellation, owned and operated by SPXS (SpaceX). It was launched on May 13, 2022, using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle from SLC4E at AFWTR. The satellite has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and spans 9 meters when its solar arrays are deployed. It carries a Ku/Ka-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link for communication purposes, powered by solar arrays and batteries. Its propulsion is provided by krypton ion thrusters. The satellite has a launch mass of 297 kilograms and a dry mass of 275 kilograms.
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 4-13-53
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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