The Day Humanity Gained New Eyes on the Sun
Fifteen years ago, NASA launched its most advanced solar observatory, revolutionizing our understanding of our star and transforming space weather prediction
IRIDIUM 122 (42957)
COSPAR: 2017-061C | Alt Name: Iridium Next SV122
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
42957
International Designator
2017-061C
Epoch
Sat, 04 Jul 2026 00:24:30 GMT
Apogee
Calculating...
Perigee
Calculating...
Inclination
86.40°
Right Ascension
18.15°
Eccentricity
Calculating...
Argument of Perigee
87.81°
Period
100.40 min
Mean Motion
14.34 rev/day
Latitude
Calculating...
Longitude
Calculating...
Altitude
Calculating...
Velocity
Calculating...
Polar Plot
3D Visualization
Basic Satellite Info
Name
IRIDIUM 122
Alternative Name
Iridium Next SV122
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
IRIDS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 42957U 17061C 26185.01702170 .00000023 00000-0 10494-5 0 9990
2 42957 86.3961 18.1488 0002122 87.8084 272.3354 14.34217712457198
Source: Celestrak
Summary
IRIDIUM 122, also known as Iridium Next SV122, is a communication and traffic monitoring satellite manufactured by OATKGA for IRIDS (Iridium). Launched on October 9, 2017, from AFWTR SLC4E using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, the satellite has dimensions of 3.1 meters in length, 1.5 meters in diameter, and spans 9.4 meters when its deployable solar arrays are extended. It weighs 860 kilograms at launch with a dry mass of 700 kilograms. The payload includes an L-band payload, Ka-band cross-links, Ka-band downlinks, ADS-B payload, and AIS-receiver technology (among 58 satellites). Equipped with batteries for power storage, the satellite is configured in a Half Hex Prism+2 pan shape designed to operate for up to 10 years as per design specifications, with an extended planned lifetime of 15 years.
Physical Characteristics
Length
3.1
Diameter
1.5
Span
9.4
Dry Mass
700
Launch Mass
860
Shape
Half Hex Prism+2 pan
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Iridium Next SV122
Purpose
Communication, traffic monitoring
Mission
Communication, traffic monitoring
Manufacturer
OATKGA
Life Expectancy
10 years (design), 15 years (planned)
Bus
EliteBus
Configuration
ELiTeBus-1000
Motor
?
Equipment
L-band payload, Ka-band cross-links, Ka-band downlinks, ADS-B payload, AIS-receiver (on 58 satellites)
Power System
2 deployable solar arrays, batteries
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
Map
Next Pass
Azimuth Elevation Time (Local)
Start Azimuth
Max Elevation
Stop Azimuth
Time Until
Pass Duration
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
Space Brief 19 Nov 2025
Today's Space Brief covers the latest developments in space debris detection, Ursa Major's defense push, and SpaceX's Starlink launch. Additionally, insights into microreactors for military bases, US Cyber Command updates, and gravitational wave discoveries are highlighted.
X Report 6 Feb 2025
SpaceX prepares for a new cargo-return mission with Atmos, deploys imaging satellites, and gears up for Axiom-4 private astronaut launch.
Space Brief 17 Sep 2025
Highlights include China's recent satellite launch, advancements in nuclear propulsion, non-kinetic tech developments for maritime defense, SpaceX's direct-to-device spectrum tests, and maneuvering satellites for Space Force missions.
Space Brief 10 Apr 2025
Key topics today include the US Space Force's new international strategy, China's partnership with Pakistan for astronaut training, and conservation concerns over SpaceX landing proposals.
C-Band
The workhorse frequency band that quietly powers satellite communications, weather radar, and Wi-Fi around the world
Space Brief 17 Dec 2023
Rocket Lab's successful Electron return to flight, China's third Shenlong mission, lessons from Virgin Orbit's failure in the UK, Hubble's 30-year post-repair anniversary, and a summary of recent global launches.
X Report 24 Aug 2025
SpaceX successfully launched its CRS-33 Dragon cargo mission to the ISS, while preparations for the upcoming Starship Flight 10 continue, highlighting significant advancements in both cargo operations and test flight reliability.