Space Brief 16 Dec 2025
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STARLINK-5249 (54205)
COSPAR: 2022-141BA | Alt Name: Starlink 5249
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
54205
International Designator
2022-141BA
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 18:39:35 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
120.51°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
68.34°
Period
95.43 min
Mean Motion
15.09 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-5249
Alternative Name
Starlink 5249
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 54205U 22141BA 26200.77749465 .00009043 00000+0 58442-3 0 9996
2 54205 53.1601 120.5121 0001780 68.3379 291.7802 15.08908678205949
Source: Celestrak
Summary
The satellite STARLINK-5249, also known as Starlink 5249 and belonging to the Starlink group, was launched on October 28, 2022, from Space Launch Complex 4E at Vandenberg Air Force Base using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It is owned by SpaceX (SPXS) and has a configuration shaped as a box with solar panels. The satellite measures approximately 0.2 meters in length, 2.8 meters in diameter, and its span extends to 9 meters. At launch, it had a mass of 305 kilograms and weighs around 290 kilograms dry. It is equipped with Ku/Ka-band payload capabilities for communication purposes along with an optical inter-satellite link. The satellite uses krypton ion thrusters for propulsion and solar arrays coupled with batteries to provide power. Its primary mission is to facilitate communication services as part of SpaceX's broader Starlink constellation project.
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 4-31-49
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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