Top 10 Features You Didn't Know About Starlink
Discover the hidden gems and lesser-known aspects of SpaceX's revolutionary Starlink satellite internet service, from Easter eggs to advanced technical features.
STARLINK-4438 (53682)
COSPAR: 2022-105AL | Alt Name: Starlink 4438
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
53682
International Designator
2022-105AL
Epoch
Mon, 20 Jul 2026 02:10:17 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
97.28°
Right Ascension
79.38°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
70.68°
Period
95.64 min
Mean Motion
15.06 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-4438
Alternative Name
Starlink 4438
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 53682U 22105AL 26201.09048125 .00000306 00000+0 25083-4 0 9994
2 53682 97.2842 79.3844 0002248 70.6837 289.4633 15.05657178213220
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-4438 is a communication satellite part of the Starlink Group 3-4-35, operated by SPXS (SpaceX). Launched on August 31, 2022, from AFWTR SLC4E using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, this spacecraft has a dry mass of 290 kg and a launch mass of 300 kg. The satellite measures 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and spans up to 9 meters when its components are deployed. It is equipped with a Ku/Ka-band payload for communication purposes and features optical inter-satellite links for data transfer. STARLINK-4438 utilizes krypton ion thrusters for propulsion and is powered by solar arrays along with batteries. The satellite's shape is described as "Box + pan," indicating its design includes both box-like sections and possibly deployable panels or antennas.
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
290
Launch Mass
300
Shape
Box + pan
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Starlink Group 3-4-35
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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