# Iridium 144

> satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q111470972](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q111470972)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/iridium-144

## Summary
Iridium 144 is an artificial satellite launched on March 30, 2018, as part of the Iridium NEXT constellation. It was launched from the Western Range using a Falcon 9 Block 4 rocket and is identified by the COSPAR designation 2018-030A.

## Key Facts
- Launch date: March 30, 2018
- Launch vehicle: Falcon 9 Block 4
- Launch site: Western Range
- COSPAR ID: 2018-030A
- Satellite number: 43249
- Instance of: artificial satellite
- Part of: Iridium NEXT constellation

### Q: What is Iridium 144?
A: Iridium 144 is an artificial satellite launched in 2018 as part of the Iridium NEXT constellation, which replaced the original Iridium satellite network.

### Q: When was Iridium 144 launched?
A: Iridium 144 was launched on March 30, 2018, from the Western Range using a Falcon 9 Block 4 rocket.

### Q: What type of satellite is Iridium 144?
A: Iridium 144 is an artificial satellite, specifically a communications satellite that is part of the Iridium NEXT constellation.

## Why It Matters
Iridium 144 represents a significant upgrade to global satellite communications infrastructure. As part of the Iridium NEXT constellation, it provides enhanced voice and data coverage across the entire planet, including polar regions where traditional cellular networks cannot reach. This satellite network serves critical communications needs for aviation, maritime, government, military, and emergency response operations. The replacement of the original Iridium constellation with NEXT-generation satellites ensures continued and improved global connectivity for decades to come, supporting everything from commercial air traffic management to disaster response communications.

## Notable For
- Part of the modernized Iridium NEXT constellation replacing the original Iridium network
- Provides truly global satellite communications coverage including polar regions
- Launched using SpaceX's Falcon 9 Block 4 rocket, demonstrating commercial launch capabilities
- Carries hosted payloads for various government and scientific missions
- Operates in low Earth orbit at approximately 780 km altitude

## Body
### Technical Specifications
Iridium 144 operates as part of a constellation of 66 operational satellites plus 9 spares in low Earth orbit. The satellite weighs approximately 860 kg and is designed for a 15-year operational lifespan. It communicates using L-band frequencies and provides global coverage through a network of cross-linked satellites.

### Launch Details
The satellite was launched aboard SpaceX's Falcon 9 Block 4 rocket as part of a multiple-satellite deployment. This launch marked one of the early missions using the Block 4 variant of the Falcon 9, which featured several improvements over previous versions including increased thrust and payload capacity.

### Operational Role
As part of the Iridium NEXT constellation, Iridium 144 provides voice and data communications services to commercial and government users worldwide. The satellite network enables mobile communications in remote areas, supports aircraft tracking and communication, and provides backup communications for critical infrastructure. The cross-linked architecture allows for seamless handoffs between satellites without requiring ground station connections for every communication.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report