# Iridium 61

> 25263

**Wikidata**: [Q111498344](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q111498344)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/iridium-61

## Summary
Iridium 61 is an artificial satellite with the designation 25263. It is part of the Iridium satellite constellation, a network of communication satellites operated by Iridium Communications.

## Key Facts
- Satellite designation: 25263
- Instance of: artificial satellite
- Part of: Iridium satellite constellation
- Wolfram Language entity code: Entity["Satellite", "25263"]
- Wikidata description: 25263
- Related class: artificial satellite (142 sitelinks)

### Q: What is Iridium 61?
A: Iridium 61 is an artificial satellite with the designation 25263, part of the Iridium satellite constellation operated by Iridium Communications.

### Q: What type of satellite is Iridium 61?
A: Iridium 61 is an artificial satellite, specifically a communication satellite that is part of the larger Iridium constellation.

### Q: How is Iridium 61 identified in databases?
A: Iridium 61 is identified by its designation number 25263 and has the Wolfram Language entity code Entity["Satellite", "25263"].

## Why It Matters
Iridium 61 plays a crucial role in the Iridium satellite constellation, which provides global satellite phone and data communications coverage. As part of this network, it helps ensure reliable communication services in remote areas where traditional cellular networks are unavailable. The Iridium constellation is particularly valuable for maritime, aviation, and military communications, as well as emergency services and IoT applications. By contributing to this extensive network of satellites, Iridium 61 helps maintain the constellation's ability to provide truly global coverage, including polar regions that are often challenging for other satellite systems to reach.

## Notable For
- Part of the Iridium satellite constellation, one of the largest commercial satellite networks
- Provides global communication coverage, including polar regions
- Contributes to reliable satellite phone and data services worldwide
- Supports critical communications for maritime, aviation, and military operations
- Enables IoT and M2M (machine-to-machine) communications in remote areas

## Body
### Technical Specifications
Iridium 61, designated as 25263, is a satellite within the Iridium constellation. While specific technical details about this individual satellite are not provided in the source material, it shares characteristics with other Iridium satellites.

### Constellation Role
As part of the Iridium network, Iridium 61 contributes to a constellation of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. These satellites work together to provide seamless global coverage, with each satellite able to communicate with up to four others in the network.

### Communication Capabilities
The Iridium constellation, including satellite 25263, enables various communication services:
- Satellite phone calls
- Text messaging
- Data transmission
- Emergency services communication
- IoT and M2M applications

### Operational Significance
Iridium 61's role in the constellation is vital for maintaining the network's reliability and coverage. The satellite's position and functionality contribute to the constellation's ability to provide:
- 100% global coverage, including oceans and polar regions
- Low-latency communications due to its LEO position
- Redundancy in the network for improved reliability

### Future Developments
While not specific to Iridium 61, the Iridium constellation is undergoing upgrades with the Iridium NEXT program, which involves replacing older satellites with more advanced models to enhance capabilities and extend the network's operational life.