Iridium Satellite Observations

Iridium Satellites - The Iridium Satellite Constellation consists of 66 active communication satellites and spares. These satellites allow for world wide voice and data communications that utilize hand held devices. This network of satellites is unique in that it covers the entire planet, including poles, oceans and airways. These satellites are frequently visible in the night sky as a short lived bright flash also known as Iridium flares. The Iridiums orbit the earth at an altitude of 483 miles and travel at approximately 16,689 mph. It takes each satellite roughly 100 minutes to circle the planet.