The Day America's Spy Satellites Gained New Eyes
Sixty-three years ago, a Thor-Agena rocket launched the first dual-camera reconnaissance satellite, revolutionizing space-based intelligence while hiding behind the final use of a famous cover name
STARLINK-3981 (52687)
COSPAR: 2022-053AH | Alt Name: Starlink 3981
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
May 18, 2022
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
52687
International Designator
2022-053AH
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 14:37:18 GMT
Apogee
Calculating...
Perigee
Calculating...
Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
271.62°
Eccentricity
Calculating...
Argument of Perigee
86.59°
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-3981
Alternative Name
Starlink 3981
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 52687U 22053AH 26200.60924691 .00000386 00000+0 42347-4 0 9997
2 52687 53.1594 271.6223 0000904 86.5877 273.5218 15.08833616231032
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-3981 is a communication satellite launched by SpaceX on May 18, 2022, from Kennedy Space Center using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The spacecraft measures 0.2 meters in length with a diameter of 2.8 meters and a span of 9 meters. It has a dry mass of 275 kilograms and was launched with a total mass of 297 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload for communication purposes, it also features optical inter-satellite link capability and is powered by solar arrays and batteries. The satellite utilizes Krypton ion thrusters for its propulsion system.
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 4-18-32
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 30 Aug 2025
Today's briefing covers the latest satellite communications advancements, a secretive military launch by SpaceX, and new space defense organizational structures.
Space Brief 9 Dec 2025
Today's edition covers significant military space developments, including DIU tech consolidation discussions, NDAA budget expansions, and new military commands.
Space Brief 3 Dec 2025
Today's brief covers the integration of commercial and military space capabilities, a notable change in Crew 12 mission, advancements in digital training for space operations, and more.
Falcon 9 Launches 25 Starlink Satellites After Weather Delays | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX launches 25 Starlink satellites from Vandenberg after multiple weather delays. 20th Falcon 9 mission of 2026 features second-ever booster landing near The Bahamas.
Space Brief 24 Nov 2025
Today's highlights include a record number of launches from Florida's Space Coast, Germany's new military space strategy, SpaceX's Starlink deployment, and more.
Space Brief 13 Aug 2025
Today's Space Brief covers the inaugural national security mission of ULA's Vulcan Centaur, the Space Force's 2026 budget insights, and shifts in military drone technology.
Falcon 9 Shatters Reuse Record With 33rd Flight on Double Launch Day | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX launches two Falcon 9 rockets in one day carrying Starlink satellites from both coasts. Most-flown booster achieves record 33rd flight. 28 V2 Mini Optimized sats deployed.