# Iridium 42

> 25077

**Wikidata**: [Q111498475](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q111498475)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/iridium-42

## Summary
Iridium 42 is an artificial satellite identified by the catalog number 25077. It belongs to the Iridium satellite constellation, a network of low-Earth orbit satellites providing global communication services. As part of this system, Iridium 42 supports voice and data transmission worldwide.

## Key Facts
- **Catalog Number**: 25077 (primary identifier).
- **Classification**: Artificial satellite designed for telecommunications.
- **Constellation**: Part of the Iridium satellite network, which enables global coverage.
- **Technical Identifier**: Wolfram Language entity code `Entity["Satellite", "25077"]`.
- **Function**: Facilitates voice, data, and messaging services across the globe.

## FAQs
### Q: What is the purpose of Iridium 42?
A: Iridium 42 is a telecommunications satellite providing global voice, data, and messaging services as part of the Iridium constellation.

### Q: How is Iridium 42 identified?
A: It is cataloged under the number 25077 and referenced in Wolfram Language as `Entity["Satellite", "25077"]`.

### Q: What network does Iridium 42 belong to?
A: It is part of the Iridium satellite constellation, a low-Earth orbit network ensuring worldwide communication coverage.

## Why It Matters
Iridium 42 plays a critical role in the Iridium constellation, a pioneering satellite network that revolutionized global telecommunications. Unlike traditional geostationary satellites, the Iridium system uses a low-Earth orbit design to eliminate coverage gaps, particularly in remote or polar regions. This satellite contributes to seamless connectivity for aviation, maritime, and emergency response sectors, ensuring reliable communication in areas underserved by terrestrial infrastructure. As part of a 66-satellite constellation, Iridium 42 exemplifies the engineering required for robust, global communication networks, addressing the universal need for uninterrupted connectivity in an increasingly interdependent world.

## Notable For
- **Global Connectivity**: Supports uninterrupted communication across remote and oceanic regions.
- **Low-Earth Orbit Design**: Operates in an altitude that minimizes signal latency compared to geostationary satellites.
- **Catalog Identification**: Recognized by the unique identifier 25077 in satellite tracking systems.

## Body
### Classification and Function
Iridium 42 is classified as an artificial satellite, specifically designed for telecommunications. Its primary function is to relay voice, data, and messaging traffic as part of the Iridium network, which consists of 66 operational satellites in low-Earth orbit.

### Technical Specifications
- **Catalog Designation**: NORAD/UCS satellite ID 25077.
- **Operational Role**: Provides coverage for handsets and terminals within its orbital footprint.
- **System Integration**: Works in tandem with other Iridium satellites to ensure continuous global coverage through a process called "satellite handover," where connections are transferred between satellites as they move out of range.

### Operational Context
The Iridium constellation, including Iridium 42, is notable for its polar orbit configuration, allowing communication services at extreme latitudes. This design differentiates it from equatorial geostationary satellites, which cannot serve polar regions effectively. The system’s architecture supports critical applications such as emergency response, aviation navigation, and maritime communication.