# Iridium 17

> satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q111498599](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q111498599)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/iridium-17

## Summary
Iridium 17 is a communications satellite launched on July 9, 1997, as part of the Iridium satellite constellation. It was part of a network designed to provide global voice and data coverage, utilizing the Delta II launch vehicle.

## Key Facts
- **Instance of**: Communications satellite
- **Part of**: Iridium satellite constellation
- **Launch date**: July 9, 1997
- **Launch vehicle**: Delta II
- **Launch site**: Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 West
- **COSPAR ID**: 1997-034B
- **NSSDCA ID**: 1997-034B
- **Wikidata ID**: 24870

## FAQs
### Q: What was the purpose of Iridium 17?
A: Iridium 17 was part of the Iridium satellite constellation, which provided global voice and data communications services.

### Q: Which launch vehicle was used to deploy Iridium 17?
A: Iridium 17 was launched using the Delta II rocket.

### Q: When was Iridium 17 launched?
A: Iridium 17 was launched on July 9, 1997.

### Q: What is the Iridium satellite constellation?
A: The Iridium satellite constellation was a network of 66 communications satellites designed to offer worldwide voice and data coverage.

### Q: Where was Iridium 17 launched from?
A: Iridium 17 was launched from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 West.

## Why It Matters
Iridium 17 played a crucial role in the Iridium satellite constellation, which aimed to provide seamless global communications. The constellation was designed to offer voice and data services to users anywhere on Earth, making it a significant advancement in satellite-based telecommunications. The launch of Iridium 17, along with its counterparts, marked a milestone in the development of global satellite networks. Despite its eventual discontinuation, the Iridium constellation demonstrated the potential of satellite-based communication systems and influenced future space-based telecommunications projects.

## Notable For
- Part of the first-generation Iridium satellite constellation, which provided global voice and data coverage.
- Launched using the Delta II rocket, a reliable expendable launch system.
- Operated as part of a network of 66 satellites, ensuring comprehensive global communications.
- Deployed from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 West, a key site for satellite launches.
- Contributed to the early development of satellite-based telecommunications infrastructure.

## Body
### Overview
Iridium 17 was a communications satellite launched as part of the Iridium satellite constellation. The constellation was designed to provide global voice and data coverage, making it a significant project in satellite-based telecommunications.

### Launch Details
- **Launch Date**: July 9, 1997
- **Launch Vehicle**: Delta II
- **Launch Site**: Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 West

### Identification
- **COSPAR ID**: 1997-034B
- **NSSDCA ID**: 1997-034B
- **Wikidata ID**: 24870

### Role in the Iridium Constellation
Iridium 17 was one of 66 satellites in the Iridium constellation, which aimed to offer worldwide communications services. The constellation was part of a larger effort to provide seamless voice and data coverage, marking a significant advancement in satellite-based telecommunications.

### Technical Specifications
- **Type**: Communications satellite
- **Constellation**: Iridium satellite constellation

### Historical Context
The Iridium constellation was launched in the late 1990s and played a pivotal role in the early development of global satellite communications. Despite its eventual discontinuation, the project laid the groundwork for future satellite-based telecommunications systems.