What is the orbiting altitude of the Iridium satellite communications system?

The Iridium satellite communications system operates at an orbiting altitude of approximately 485 miles above Earth. This altitude is significant because it allows the satellites to maintain a low-earth orbit, which provides the necessary coverage and communication capabilities. At this height, the satellites can effectively communicate with each other and with ground stations, ensuring a reliable network for global communications.

The choice of 485 miles balances the need for a stable orbit with the ability to minimize latency in communication, enhancing the effectiveness of the system. Lower altitudes might cause communication challenges due to the increased atmospheric drag affecting satellite stability, while higher altitudes could compromise the coverage and signal strength.

In the context of satellite communication systems, altitude selection is critical for various operational factors like coverage area, signal strength, and orbital stability, making this specific height of 485 miles an ideal choice for the Iridium system.