# Iridium 920

> communications satellite operated by Iridium Communications

**Wikidata**: [Q111498600](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q111498600)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/iridium-920

## Summary
Iridium 920 is a communications satellite operated by Iridium Communications, part of the Iridium satellite constellation. Launched on July 9, 1997, it was deployed to provide global voice and data coverage as part of the constellation's network.

## Key Facts
- **Instance of**: Communications satellite
- **Operator**: Iridium Communications
- **Part of**: Iridium satellite constellation
- **Launch date**: July 9, 1997, at 13:04 UTC
- **Launch vehicle**: Delta II (mission D-244)
- **Launch site**: Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 West
- **COSPAR ID**: 1997-034C
- **NSSDCA ID**: 1997-034C
- **Aliases**: Iridium SV020, Iridium 20

## FAQs
### Q: What was the purpose of Iridium 920?
A: Iridium 920 was part of the Iridium satellite constellation, designed to provide global voice and data communications, including mobile and fixed services.

### Q: Which rocket launched Iridium 920?
A: Iridium 920 was launched on a Delta II rocket (mission D-244) from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 West on July 9, 1997.

### Q: What is the Iridium satellite constellation?
A: The Iridium satellite constellation is a network of satellites providing global voice and data coverage, including mobile and fixed communications services.

### Q: How is Iridium 920 identified in official records?
A: Iridium 920 is officially designated with COSPAR ID 1997-034C and NSSDCA ID 1997-034C.

### Q: What are the other names for Iridium 920?
A: Iridium 920 is also known as Iridium SV020 and Iridium 20.

## Why It Matters
Iridium 920 played a crucial role in establishing the Iridium satellite constellation, which was designed to offer global mobile and fixed communications services. The constellation aimed to provide seamless connectivity for voice, data, and messaging services, particularly in remote and maritime regions. Launched in 1997, Iridium 920 was part of the initial deployment of 66 satellites to ensure full coverage. The project faced significant challenges, including high costs and delays, but it demonstrated the potential of satellite-based global communications. While the original Iridium constellation was later replaced by Iridium NEXT, the legacy of Iridium 920 and its peers remains influential in the development of modern satellite communication networks.

## Notable For
- Part of the first-generation Iridium satellite constellation, providing early global communications coverage.
- Launched on a Delta II rocket, contributing to the reliability of the Iridium network.
- Officially designated with COSPAR and NSSDCA IDs, ensuring accurate tracking in spaceflight records.
- Known by multiple aliases, reflecting its role in the Iridium system.
- Operated by Iridium Communications, a key player in satellite telecommunications.

## Body
### Overview
Iridium 920 is a communications satellite operated by Iridium Communications, part of the Iridium satellite constellation. The constellation was designed to provide global voice and data communications, including mobile and fixed services.

### Launch Details
- **Launch Date**: July 9, 1997, at 13:04 UTC.
- **Launch Vehicle**: Delta II (mission D-244).
- **Launch Site**: Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 West.

### Identification
- **COSPAR ID**: 1997-034C.
- **NSSDCA ID**: 1997-034C.
- **Aliases**: Iridium SV020, Iridium 20.

### Role in the Constellation
Iridium 920 was one of the satellites deployed to form the Iridium satellite constellation, which aimed to offer global mobile and fixed communications services. The constellation was part of a larger project to provide seamless connectivity, particularly in remote and maritime regions.

### Historical Context
The Iridium satellite constellation was launched in 1997 and faced significant challenges, including high costs and delays. Despite these obstacles, it demonstrated the potential of satellite-based global communications. The original constellation was later replaced by Iridium NEXT, but the legacy of Iridium 920 and its peers remains influential in the development of modern satellite communication networks.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report