Space Brief 16 Jul 2025
Today's brief covers China's Tianzhou-9 launch to the Tiangong space station, the U.S. Space Force's unfunded MILNET project, and the evolving use of AI in military applications.
STARLINK-4744 (53788)
COSPAR: 2022-111R | Alt Name: Starlink 4744
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
September 11, 2022
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
53788
International Designator
2022-111R
Decay Date
11/15/2022
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-4744
Alternative Name
Starlink 4744
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-4744 satellite, also known as Starlink 4744, is part of the Starlink Group 4-2-16 and was launched on September 11, 2022, from LC39A at AFETR using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and a span of 9 meters. The satellite's dry mass is 290 kg with a launch mass of 305 kg. Equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link for communication purposes, it also utilizes solar arrays and batteries for power supply and krypton ion thrusters as its propulsion system. Manufactured by SPXS, the satellite is owned and operated under the mission of providing communication services in a box plus pan shape configuration.
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
305
Shape
Box + pan
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Starlink Group 4-2-16
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.
Space Brief 10 Dec 2024
Today's highlights include a new 5G demonstration launch on Firefly, potential supply chain interruptions in the defense sector, and updates on Artemis and ULA launches.
Space Brief 2 Sep 2025
Today's brief covers key topics such as SpaceX's latest Starlink launch, the European Space Agency's new initiatives, and Space Force's integration of AI into its operations.
Understanding Earth's Orbits and Their Applications
Explore the dynamic realms of Earth's orbits, from LEO to GEO, unraveling the crucial roles they play in global communication, navigation, and surveillance.
Space Force Awards Orbital AMTI to 9 Companies | KeepTrack Space Brief
Space Force confirmed 9 companies won orbital Air Moving Target Indication contracts. Capability shifts airborne surveillance to satellites for expanded coverage and survivability.
X Report 19 Feb 2025
SpaceX achieves a new milestone with a Falcon 9 landing near The Bahamas, closely following Rocket Lab's successful satellite launch.
X Report 23 Sep 2025
SpaceX successfully launched the NROL-48 mission, growing the National Reconnaissance Office's satellite fleet. Additionally, NASA introduced ten new astronaut candidates, increasing female representation in its ranks.
DARPA Robotic GEO Servicer Targeting Summer 2026 Launch | KeepTrack Space Brief
DARPA's robotic satellite servicing mission targets GEO orbit by summer 2026. NASA adds six SpaceX crew missions as Boeing Starliner remains uncertified.