Space Brief 18 May 2025
Today's briefing highlights recent launches and failures, including an Indian radar satellite setback, successful Rocket Lab missions, and China's debut of upgraded rocket technology.
STARLINK-36100 (66942)
COSPAR: 2025-286T | Alt Name: N/A
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
66942
International Designator
2025-286T
Epoch
Mon, 20 Jul 2026 02:03:10 GMT
Apogee
Calculating...
Perigee
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Inclination
53.16°
Right Ascension
101.61°
Eccentricity
Calculating...
Argument of Perigee
90.65°
Period
93.85 min
Mean Motion
15.34 rev/day
Latitude
Calculating...
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-36100
Alternative Name
N/A
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 66942U 25286T 26201.08554194 .00009094 00000+0 27995-3 0 9993
2 66942 53.1581 101.6112 0001316 90.6544 269.4609 15.34399396 35649
Source: Celestrak
Summary
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
0.3
Diameter
4.1
Span
29.0
Dry Mass
530
Launch Mass
575
Shape
Box + pan
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Starlink Group 11-15-18
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
SPXS
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Starlink V2MO
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
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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