# Iridium 25

> satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q111498581](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q111498581)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/iridium-25

## Summary
Iridium 25 is a communications satellite launched as part of the Iridium satellite constellation, which provides global voice and data coverage. It was launched on August 21, 1997, aboard a Delta II rocket from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 West. The satellite was decommissioned and re-entered Earth's atmosphere on May 14, 2018.

## Key Facts
- **Class**: Communications satellite
- **Part of**: Iridium satellite constellation
- **Launch date**: August 21, 1997
- **Launch vehicle**: Delta II
- **Launch site**: Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 West
- **Decommissioning date**: May 14, 2018 (atmospheric entry)
- **COSPAR ID**: 1997-043B
- **NSSDCA ID**: 1997-043B
- **Wikidata ID**: Q24904

## FAQs
### Q: What was the purpose of Iridium 25?
A: Iridium 25 was part of the Iridium satellite constellation, designed to provide global voice and data communications services.

### Q: How was Iridium 25 launched?
A: Iridium 25 was launched on August 21, 1997, aboard a Delta II rocket from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 West.

### Q: When was Iridium 25 decommissioned?
A: Iridium 25 re-entered Earth's atmosphere on May 14, 2018, marking its decommissioning.

### Q: What constellation did Iridium 25 belong to?
A: Iridium 25 was part of the Iridium satellite constellation, which provided global communications coverage.

### Q: What launch vehicle was used for Iridium 25?
A: Iridium 25 was launched using a Delta II rocket.

## Why It Matters
Iridium 25 played a crucial role in the Iridium satellite constellation, which was designed to offer global voice and data communications services. The constellation aimed to provide reliable connectivity for mobile and remote users, particularly in regions with limited infrastructure. The decommissioning of Iridium 25 in 2018 marked the end of an era for the constellation, which had faced financial challenges and competition from newer satellite networks. Despite its eventual retirement, Iridium 25 contributed to the development of global satellite communications, paving the way for more advanced systems in the future.

## Notable For
- **Part of a global communications network**: Iridium 25 was one of 66 satellites in the Iridium constellation, providing voice and data services worldwide.
- **Decommissioned in 2018**: The satellite re-entered Earth's atmosphere on May 14, 2018, marking its end of service.
- **Launched by Delta II**: Iridium 25 was launched using a Delta II rocket, a retired expendable launch system.
- **COSPAR and NSSDCA identification**: The satellite is cataloged under COSPAR ID 1997-043B and NSSDCA ID 1997-043B.

## Body
### Overview
Iridium 25 was a communications satellite launched as part of the Iridium satellite constellation. The constellation was designed to provide global voice and data communications services, particularly for mobile and remote users.

### Launch Details
- **Launch date**: August 21, 1997
- **Launch vehicle**: Delta II
- **Launch site**: Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 West

### Operational History
- **Decommissioning**: Iridium 25 re-entered Earth's atmosphere on May 14, 2018, marking its end of service.

### Identification
- **COSPAR ID**: 1997-043B
- **NSSDCA ID**: 1997-043B

### Constellation Context
- **Part of**: Iridium satellite constellation, which consisted of 66 satellites providing global communications coverage.

### Technical Specifications
- **Class**: Communications satellite
- **Wikidata ID**: Q24904

Iridium 25 was a key component of the Iridium constellation, contributing to the development of global satellite communications. Its decommissioning in 2018 marked the end of an era for the constellation, which had faced financial challenges and competition from newer satellite networks. Despite its eventual retirement, Iridium 25 played a significant role in the evolution of satellite communications technology.

## References

1. SATCAT