Abstract :
A description is given of the IRIDIUM communication system, so-called because the system design originally consisted of 77 networked satellites, and the element iridium has the atomic number 77. The goal is to make instant global communications a reality. The system design now consists of 60 satellites, a system control facility, gateways, and subscriber units. Each of these components is examined.<>
Keywords :
satellite relay systems; telecommunications control; IRIDIUM communication system; gateways; instant global communications; networked satellites; subscriber units; system control facility; Artificial satellites; Chemical elements; Control systems; Delay; Earth; Iris; Satellite antennas; Telephony; Terrestrial atmosphere;
