Space Brief 6 Apr 2025
Today, we explore substantial U.S. defense contracts awarded for space launches, ESA's enigmatic Euclid images release, and SpaceX missions covering satellite launches and astronaut reentries.
STARLINK-5279 (54165)
COSPAR: 2022-141J | Alt Name: Starlink 5279
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
54165
International Designator
2022-141J
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 05:11:38 GMT
Apogee
Calculating...
Perigee
Calculating...
Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
143.36°
Eccentricity
Calculating...
Argument of Perigee
96.81°
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-5279
Alternative Name
Starlink 5279
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 54165U 22141J 26200.21641721 .00000363 00000+0 40953-4 0 9991
2 54165 53.1605 143.3627 0001679 96.8093 263.3090 15.08822301205579
Source: Celestrak
Summary
STARLINK-5279 is a communication satellite operated by SpaceX (SPXS) and part of the Starlink constellation. It was launched on October 28, 2022, from AFWTR SLC4E using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite measures 0.2 meters in length, has a diameter of 2.8 meters, and a span of 9 meters. Its dry mass is 290 kilograms with an initial launch mass of 305 kilograms. It is equipped with a Ku/Ka-band payload for communication purposes along with optical inter-satellite links and Krypton ion thrusters for propulsion. Power is supplied by solar arrays and batteries, and its shape consists of a box-like structure with panels.
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 4-31-09
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
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.
X Report 16 Sep 2025
SpaceX continues to make headlines with successful launches and advancements in satellite technology. Notably, a Falcon 9 rocket delivered an upgraded Cygnus spacecraft to the ISS amid a busy launch schedule this week.
X Report 24 Oct 2025
SpaceX achieves a new milestone with its record 139th launch of the year while competition heats up in satellite communications.
Space Brief 9 Jun 2025
Key space events for today include potential changes in US space policy involving SpaceX, uncertainties regarding NASA's Starliner, and China's new steps in asteroid exploration.
Van Allen Probe A Reenters March 10 After 14 Years | KeepTrack Space Brief
NASA's Van Allen Probe A (1,300 lbs) reenters today after 14 years studying Earth's radiation belts. Most debris will burn up; ocean impact statistically likely.
Space Brief 17 Nov 2025
Today's highlights include key advancements for the Dream Chaser, SpaceX's record launches, Moon mission crowding concerns, and updates in European space policy.
X Report 9 Jan 2025
Exciting advancements from SpaceX as Starshield satellites prepare for launch, Starship Flight 7 faces a short delay, and new Starlink satellites enter orbit.
X Report 23 Nov 2024
SpaceX advances with Starship tests as Starlink continues global expansion. Key infrastructure updates from Cape Canaveral involve multiple industry players.