Space Brief 4 Mar 2025
Today's brief covers the historic lunar touchdown by Firefly Aerospace's Blue Ghost lander, highlights in military space activity, and a reflection on Pearl Young's pioneering legacy at NASA.
STARLINK-4522 (53388)
COSPAR: 2022-097A | Alt Name: Starlink 4522
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
August 10, 2022
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
53388
International Designator
2022-097A
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 09:48:30 GMT
Apogee
Calculating...
Perigee
Calculating...
Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
252.52°
Eccentricity
Calculating...
Argument of Perigee
95.72°
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-4522
Alternative Name
Starlink 4522
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 53388U 22097A 26200.40868750 -.00000721 00000+0 -27258-4 0 9994
2 53388 53.1585 252.5193 0000934 95.7245 264.3852 15.08830564218732
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The STARLINK-4522 satellite, also known as Starlink 4522 and part of the Starlink Group 4-26-01 payload, is a communication satellite launched on August 10, 2022, from LC39A at AFETR using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. Manufactured by SPXS, it has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter with a span of 9 meters. The satellite carries a Ku/Ka-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link for communication purposes and is equipped with krypton ion thrusters as its motor system. It was launched with a mass of 297 kilograms, which includes solar arrays and batteries for power generation. Its shape can be described as box-like with pan configuration but lacks specific details on its color, RCS, ADCS, or material composition.
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 4-26-01
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.
Gunter's Space Page
Why this unassuming website has become the backbone of space research for enthusiasts and professionals alike
Space Brief 31 Jul 2025
Today's Space Brief brings updates on the U.S. Space Force's upcoming missions, in-space technology strategies, the challenges faced by new launchers, and advancements in satellite communication.
Space Brief 18 Jun 2025
Today's updates cover crucial developments in satellite licensing reforms, defense cybersecurity, and AI integration within government sectors.
Falcon 9 Booster Sets 33-Flight Reuse Record, X Report 23 Feb 2026
Falcon 9 booster reuse record: SpaceX's most-flown booster flew a 33rd flight Feb 21 with 28 Starlink V2 Minis. Two launches in a day; 9,779 on orbit.
Space Force Awards $1.8B Andromeda Program to 14 Firms | KeepTrack Space Brief
Space Force selects 14 companies for $1.8 billion Andromeda program to replace GSSAP geosynchronous surveillance satellites with commercial alternatives through 2036.
Rocket Lab Acquires 66-Satellite Iridium Constellation | KeepTrack Space Brief
Rocket Lab to acquire Iridium's 66-satellite LEO constellation for end-to-end vertical integration. Deal includes spacecraft manufacturing, launch, and on-orbit operations control.
Space Brief 17 Dec 2023
Rocket Lab's successful Electron return to flight, China's third Shenlong mission, lessons from Virgin Orbit's failure in the UK, Hubble's 30-year post-repair anniversary, and a summary of recent global launches.