IRIDIUM

Powered by a uniquely sophisticated global constellation of 66 cross-linked Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, the Iridium®network provides high-quality voice and data connections over the planet’s entire surface, including across airways, oceans, and polar regions. Together with its ecosystem of partner companies, Iridium delivers an innovative and rich portfolio of reliable solutions for markets that require truly global communications.
 
Iridium completed a constellation upgrade in early 2019, replacing all its satellites and upgrading the supporting ground infrastructure. This enabled the launch of Iridium Certus®, a new multi-service platform delivering specialty broadband services, with additional narrowband services coming soon.

 
At only 780 km from the Earth, the proximity of Iridium’s LEO network means pole-to-pole coverage, a shorter transmission path, stronger signals, lower latency, and shorter registration time than with GEO satellites. In space, each Iridium satellite is linked to up to four others creating a dynamic network that routes traffic among satellites to ensure global coverage, even where traditional local systems are unavailable.

The flexible software-based design of the Iridium network enables aviation solutions that help improve aircraft safety, streamline operations, and allow for reliable, efficient communication between onboard crew members, air traffic control, and ground crews.
 
Soon, Iridium Certus will deliver aviation solutions with high-performance services from cockpit to cabin. Through small-form-factor, low-profile antennas, Iridium Certus will be ideal for aircraft operators looking to keep crew and passengers connected – supporting email, internet, voice and data communications, anywhere on the planet.

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