# Iridium 26

> satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q111498607](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q111498607)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/iridium-26

## Summary
Iridium 26 is a communications satellite launched on August 21, 1997, as part of the Iridium satellite constellation. It was part of a network designed to provide global voice and data coverage, using the Delta II launch vehicle. The satellite has a COSPAR ID of 1997-043A and is classified as a communications satellite.

## Key Facts
- **Instance of**: Communications satellite
- **Part of**: Iridium satellite constellation
- **Launch date**: August 21, 1997
- **Launch vehicle**: Delta II
- **Launch site**: Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 West
- **COSPAR ID**: 1997-043A
- **NSSDCA ID**: 1997-043A
- **SCN (Satellite Catalog Number)**: 24903
- **Wikidata description**: Satellite

## FAQs
### Q: What was the purpose of Iridium 26?
A: Iridium 26 was part of the Iridium satellite constellation, which provided global voice and data communications services.

### Q: Which launch vehicle was used to deploy Iridium 26?
A: Iridium 26 was launched using the Delta II rocket.

### Q: Where was Iridium 26 launched from?
A: Iridium 26 was launched from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 West.

### Q: What is the COSPAR ID of Iridium 26?
A: The COSPAR ID of Iridium 26 is 1997-043A.

### Q: What is the Satellite Catalog Number (SCN) of Iridium 26?
A: The SCN of Iridium 26 is 24903.

## Why It Matters
Iridium 26 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, especially in remote and maritime regions. The satellite's deployment was part of a larger effort to establish a comprehensive global communications network. While the Iridium constellation faced financial challenges and eventual discontinuation, it was a significant milestone in satellite communications technology. Iridium 26's launch and operation contributed to advancements in global telecommunications infrastructure, demonstrating the potential of satellite-based communication systems.

## Notable For
- **Part of a global communications network**: Iridium 26 was one of 66 satellites in the Iridium constellation, designed to provide worldwide voice and data coverage.
- **Use of Delta II launch vehicle**: The satellite was launched using the Delta II rocket, a retired expendable launch system.
- **COSPAR and NSSDCA identification**: Iridium 26 has well-documented identifiers, including COSPAR ID 1997-043A and NSSDCA ID 1997-043A.
- **Vandenberg launch site**: The satellite was launched from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 West, a significant spaceport for U.S. missions.
- **Satellite Catalog Number**: Iridium 26 is assigned SCN 24903, a unique identifier in the global satellite catalog.

## Body
### Overview
Iridium 26 is a communications satellite that was part of the Iridium satellite constellation. The constellation was designed to provide global voice and data communications services, particularly in remote and maritime regions. The satellite was launched on August 21, 1997, using the Delta II launch vehicle from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 West.

### Classification and Identification
- **Instance of**: Communications satellite
- **Part of**: Iridium satellite constellation
- **COSPAR ID**: 1997-043A
- **NSSDCA ID**: 1997-043A
- **SCN (Satellite Catalog Number)**: 24903

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

### Role in the Iridium Constellation
Iridium 26 was one of 66 satellites in the Iridium constellation, which aimed to provide global voice and data communications services. The constellation was designed to offer reliable connectivity, especially in regions where traditional communication infrastructure was limited. The satellite's deployment was part of a larger effort to establish a comprehensive global communications network.

### Technical Specifications
- **Wikidata description**: Satellite
- **Wolfram Language Entity Code**: Entity["Satellite", "24903"]

### Historical Context
The Iridium constellation faced financial challenges and eventually discontinued its services. However, the satellite's launch and operation contributed to advancements in global telecommunications infrastructure, demonstrating the potential of satellite-based communication systems. Iridium 26's role in the constellation highlights the importance of satellite communications in providing global connectivity.

## References

1. SATCAT