Space Brief 22 May 2025
Today's brief covers strategic alignments in U.S. military space operations, a landmark missile defense program, and advances in secure satellite communications.
STARLINK-36273 (68166)
COSPAR: 2026-049AA | Alt Name: N/A
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
68166
International Designator
2026-049AA
Epoch
Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:48:49 GMT
Apogee
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Perigee
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Inclination
97.28°
Right Ascension
222.73°
Eccentricity
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Argument of Perigee
89.49°
Period
93.91 min
Mean Motion
15.33 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-36273
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 68166U 26049AA 26201.03390549 .00007630 00000+0 23841-3 0 9998
2 68166 97.2846 222.7283 0001660 89.4898 270.6535 15.33444522 19988
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 17-31-25
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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