Re: iridium 77?

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In a message dated 98-06-21 12:02:02 EDT, Dale Ireland wrote:

<< Someone posted a message saying that the Iridium satellite series was named
 Iridium because the number of satellites equaled the atomic number of
 iridium 77. Is this true? Are they planning to have 77 in orbit and 66
 functioning? >>

As previous posters wrote, 77 was the original planned number, thus the
name Iridium.  Then it was decided that 66 was enough but they liked
the name Iridium.

But also, I've heard that the final plan was to have 66 actively operating
ones and 6 spares (one for each plane) making a total of 72.  With some
in orbit having failed, it is unclear to me how it all adds up at this point
in time.  I also don't know but am curious to know if there will be another
Vandenberg launch to make up for the failed ones and/or planned spares.
Some launch schedules list another launch (or two?) on a tentative basis
in the next couple of months.  If anyone has definite answers, please post.

BTW, in adding up the Iridiums, looking at the Iridium.tle, the lowest number
is #4.  There is no #1, #2, or #3.  I don't remember ever reading an
explanation
for this, but I'm sure someone knows....(?).

-- Jake Rees
   Burbank, California USA

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