STARLINK-4256 (52994)

COSPAR: 2022-076J | Alt Name: Starlink 4256

Image
STARLINK-4256 Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

July 7, 2022

Launch Pad

LC40

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

52994

International Designator

2022-076J

Epoch

Sun, 19 Jul 2026 18:35:45 GMT

Apogee

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Perigee

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Inclination

53.16°

Right Ascension

216.59°

Eccentricity

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Argument of Perigee

75.36°

Period

93.85 min

Mean Motion

15.34 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
Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-4256

Alternative Name

Starlink 4256

Type

Payload

Status

Operational

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Latest TLEs
1 52994U 22076J   26200.77483622  .00000339  00000+0  21163-4 0  9996
2 52994  53.1600 216.5871 0001146  75.3593 284.7537 15.34388250222843

Source: Celestrak

Summary
The STARLINK-4256 satellite, also known as Starlink 4256, is part of SpaceX's Starlink constellation and was launched on July 7, 2022, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (AFETR) 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, featuring solar arrays and batteries for power supply. Its dry mass is 275 kg, while its launch mass was 297 kg. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload and optical inter-satellite link, it uses krypton ion thrusters as propulsion. The mission's purpose is communication, operated 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.
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 4-21-09

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
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