This phone was developed as an integral part of a space-based communications system called Iridium, which began operation in 1998. Conceived, designed, and built by Motorola, the Iridium system provides wireless, mobile communications through a network of 66 satellites in polar, low-Earth orbits. Hand-held mobile phones, such as this one, link directly to the satellite network (via the antenna on the top of the phone), allowing users to communicate nearly anywhere in the world--a first in the history of telephony. As of 2007, the network still is in operation.
This phone, built by Motorola, was introduced in 1998 when Iridium initiated service and was donated by Iridium Operating LLC to the Museum in 2000.
Display Status
This object is on display in One World Connected at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
EQUIPMENT-Communications Devices
Manufacturer
Motorola Space and Systems Technology Group, Satellites Communications Division
Dimensions
3-D: 6.4 × 6.7 × 19.4cm (2 1/2 × 2 5/8 × 7 5/8 in.)
Other (Antenna Deployed Vertically): 40.6cm (1 ft. 4 in.)
3-D (antenna secured at 45deg): 30.2 × 16.8 × 6.3cm (11 7/8 × 6 5/8 × 2 1/2 in.)
Materials
Plastic, glass, copper
Inventory Number
A20000658000
Credit Line
Gift of Iridium Operating LLC.
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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