# Iridium 4

> communications satellite operated by Iridium Communications

**Wikidata**: [Q111498612](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q111498612)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/iridium-4

## Summary
Iridium 4 is a communications satellite operated by Iridium Communications and serves as a component of the Iridium satellite constellation. Launched on May 5, 1997, the satellite was deployed into orbit using a Delta II rocket from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 West. It is also identified by the designator Iridium SV004.

## Key Facts
- **Operator:** Iridium Communications
- **Constellation:** Part of the Iridium satellite constellation
- **Launch Date:** May 5, 1997 (14:55:28 UTC)
- **Launch Site:** Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 West
- **Launch Vehicle:** Delta II (Specific configuration: D-242)
- **COSPAR ID:** 1997-020E
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN):** 24796
- **Alternate Name:** Iridium SV004
- **Instance of:** Communications satellite

## FAQs
### Q: When was Iridium 4 launched?
A: Iridium 4 was launched on May 5, 1997, at 14:55:28 UTC.

### Q: What rocket was used to launch Iridium 4?
A: The satellite was launched aboard a Delta II rocket (configuration D-242).

### Q: What is the purpose of Iridium 4?
A: Iridium 4 is a communications satellite designed to provide voice and data coverage as part of the broader Iridium satellite constellation.

### Q: Where did the launch of Iridium 4 take place?
A: The launch took place at the Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 West.

## Why It Matters
Iridium 4 represents a critical piece of early space-based infrastructure deployed to establish the Iridium satellite constellation. As a communications satellite operated by Iridium Communications, its primary function is to enable telecommunications capabilities, specifically voice and data coverage. The existence of satellites like Iridium 4 allows for connectivity in regions where traditional ground-based infrastructure is absent or impractical, bridging communication gaps globally.

The launch of Iridium 4 in 1997 was a significant event in the expansion of this network, utilizing the reliable Delta II launch system to reach orbit from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 West. The satellite, identified by COSPAR ID 1997-020E, contributes to the mesh network required to maintain continuous service links. By serving as a node in this constellation, Iridium 4 plays a direct role in supporting global transmission capabilities, making it relevant to industries and individuals dependent on satellite phone and data services.

## Notable For
- **Constellation Membership:** Being an integral component of the Iridium satellite constellation, a large network designed for global coverage.
- **Launch Vehicle:** Deployment via the Delta II, a retired expendable launch system historically significant in the Delta rocket family.
- **Specific Designation:** Possession of specific identifiers such as the Wolfram Language entity code `Entity["Satellite", "24796"]` and the alias Iridium SV004.
- **Launch Origin:** Utilization of Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 West, a specific site for polar and sun-synchronous orbits.

## Body

### Mission and Classification
Iridium 4 is classified as an artificial satellite designed for telecommunications. It is operated commercially by Iridium Communications. The satellite functions as a node within the Iridium satellite constellation, a system dedicated to providing voice and data coverage.

### Launch Specifics
The satellite was successfully launched on May 5, 1997. The specific time of the launch event was recorded as 14:55:28.
*   **Launch Vehicle:** The launch was conducted using a Delta II rocket. The specific variant or configuration used for this mission was D-242.
*   **Launch Site:** The mission departed from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 West.
*   **Significant Event:** The deployment is categorized as a "rocket launch" event associated with the Vandenberg location.

### Identifiers and Technical Data
Iridium 4 is tracked and referenced through multiple international cataloging systems:
*   **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN):** 24796
*   **COSPAR ID:** 1997-020E
*   **NSSDCA ID:** 1997-020E
*   **Aliases:** Iridium SV004
*   **Wolfram Language Entity:** `Entity["Satellite", "24796"]`

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report