Delta Rocket Increases Iridium Constellation | Universe Today

Written by Fraser Cain

A Boeing Delta II rocket lifted off from Vandenberg Air Force Base, California today carrying a cargo of five spare satellites for the Iridium communications network. These additional five satellites join the 66 operational satellites and seven spares already in low-earth orbit. The US government is the primary customer for Iridium, and its 2-year, $72 million contract staved off bankruptcy for the troubled company.

Filed under: Satellites

Related stories on Universe Today

• Second Mars Rover Launch Pushed Back a Day
• Defense Department Satellite Launched
• Delta II Launches GPS Satellite
• Gigantic Delta 4-Heavy Blasts Off
• First West Coast Delta IV Launch is Successful