Space Brief 19 Nov 2024
Today's brief covers the investigation into Musk-Putin calls, SpaceX launch restrictions impacts, Pentagon's space investment strategies, ABL Space's pivot in focus, and Israel's defense export developments.
STARLINK-3945 (52691)
COSPAR: 2022-053AM | Alt Name: Starlink 3945
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
May 18, 2022
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
52691
International Designator
2022-053AM
Decay Date
12/26/2024
Explore in the Catalog
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-3945
Alternative Name
Starlink 3945
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-3945 satellite, also known as Starlink 3945, is part of the Starlink Group 4-18-36 and was launched on May 18, 2022, from LC39A at AFETR using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The spacecraft has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and a span of 9 meters. It has a dry mass of 275 kilograms and a launch mass of 297 kilograms. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link, STARLINK-3945 is powered by solar arrays and batteries. The satellite utilizes krypton ion thrusters for propulsion and is shaped like a box with a pan configuration. It operates in communication purposes as part of the SPXS constellation owned by SpaceX (SPXS).
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 4-18-36
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.
Lagrange Points
Five spots in the Earth-Sun system where the gravitational tug of two massive bodies and the pull of circular motion all cancel out, creating gravitational parking spaces where spacecraft can sit for decades with almost no fuel.
Space Force Eyes 1,000 Launches by 2031, New Site Required | KeepTrack Space Brief
Space Force projects ~1,000 launches between FY2027–FY2031, averaging 200 annually. DAF study concludes new launch site is "probably" required to absorb cadence.
X Report 7 Nov 2024
SpaceX prepares for sixth Starship flight, slated for mid-November, following successful fifth test in October.
The Day Humanity First Touched an Asteroid
Twenty-four years ago, a spacecraft designed only to orbit made history with an improvised landing on asteroid Eros, marking humanitys first controlled touchdown on a small celestial body
Andøya Spaceport
Europe's Arctic gateway to orbit. How Norway's Andøya Spaceport is positioning itself as the continent's answer to launch congestion - and what the failed Isar Aerospace test flight means for the road ahead.
X Report 3 Jul 2025
In a landmark achievement, SpaceX celebrated its 500th Falcon 9 launch by deploying 27 Starlink satellites while simultaneously advancing its reuse strategy with record-breaking milestones.
X Report 30 Sep 2025
SpaceX gears up for its next Starship flight while recent Falcon 9 missions make headlines with spectacular launches, bringing fresh Starlink satellites into orbit.