# Iridium 148

> satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q111470978](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q111470978)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/iridium-148

## Summary  
Iridium 148 is an artificial satellite and part of the Iridium satellite constellation, launched on March 30, 2018. It was deployed using a Falcon 9 Block 4 rocket from the Western Range. As a component of Iridium's next-generation network, it supports global mobile voice and data communications.

## Key Facts  
- COSPAR ID: 2018-030G  
- SCN (Satellite Catalog Number): 43255  
- Launch Date: March 30, 2018  
- Launch Vehicle: Falcon 9 Block 4  
- Launch Site: Western Range  
- Instance Of: Artificial Satellite  
- Part Of: Iridium NEXT Constellation  

## FAQs  
### Q: What is Iridium 148 used for?  
A: Iridium 148 is a communications satellite in the Iridium NEXT constellation. It provides global coverage for voice and data services, especially in remote areas without terrestrial infrastructure.

### Q: When was Iridium 148 launched?  
A: Iridium 148 was launched on March 30, 2018.

### Q: Which rocket launched Iridium 148?  
A: The satellite was launched aboard a Falcon 9 Block 4 rocket.

## Why It Matters  
Iridium 148 plays a critical role in maintaining and enhancing the operational capacity of the Iridium NEXT satellite constellation. This network delivers reliable global communication services, including aviation and maritime tracking, emergency response systems, and IoT connectivity. Its position in low Earth orbit ensures minimal latency and robust signal availability across the globe, making it essential for industries requiring dependable, real-time communication beyond traditional cellular networks.

## Notable For  
- Launched as part of the Iridium NEXT modernization program  
- Operated with the Falcon 9 Block 4, a key iteration in SpaceX’s reusable rocket development  
- Supports global communications in regions where terrestrial infrastructure is lacking or non-existent  
- Integral to Iridium's cross-linked satellite architecture enabling seamless worldwide coverage  
- Identified by SCN 43255 and COSPAR ID 2018-030G  

## Body  
### Mission Overview  
Iridium 148 is one of several satellites launched to replenish and upgrade the original Iridium constellation. It contributes to the Iridium NEXT system, which replaced older satellites to improve performance and extend service life.

### Technical Details  
- **SCN**: 43255  
- **COSPAR ID**: 2018-030G  
- **Launch Mass**: Approximately 860 kg (typical for Iridium NEXT satellites)  
- **Orbit Type**: Low Earth Orbit (LEO), polar orbit  
- **Constellation Role**: Cross-linked mesh network node  

### Launch Information  
- **Date**: March 30, 2018  
- **Vehicle**: Falcon 9 Block 4  
- **Launch Provider**: SpaceX  
- **Site**: Western Range (California, USA)  

### Operational Context  
As part of the Iridium NEXT fleet, Iridium 148 helps maintain continuous global coverage through inter-satellite links. These links allow signals to hop between satellites without needing ground stations at every step, reducing latency and improving reliability.  

The satellite supports both L-band communications and Automatic Identification System (AIS) for maritime vessel tracking, contributing to safety and logistics applications globally.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report