On Friday, March 30, SpaceX launched ten more Iridium NEXT satellites into orbit, bringing the new 66-satellite constellation to near completion.  According to Iridium, all 10 satellites have began communication with the ground and they are preparing to move into the testing phase before placing them into active service.  Learn more here.

As part of its commitment to its reliable, fully-global satellite network, Iridium is launching its next generation of satellites comprising 66 active satellites as well as 9 orbital and 6 ground spares. Iridium has been launching these new satellites with SpaceX throughout 2017 and will continue in 2018 with launches of 10 satellites about every two months.

In addition to providing enhanced low earth orbit communications for Iridium satellite phones, some Iridium NEXT satellites include additional capabilities for air traffic control, airlines, and marine AIS (Aeronautical Information Service) ship tracking receivers.

Outfitter Satellite, as a premier supplier of satellite phones, accessories, and rentals, is keeping a close eye on the progress.

Iridium M2M – Global Connectivity for the Internet of Things

Safety Tips for Skiing and Snowboarding

Snow means a lot of different things to people around the world. Some never see it. Some hate it, viewing it as a nuisance that requires hours of backbreaking shoveling just to get their car out of the garage. Others love to watch the snowfall… as long as they're watching through a window while curled up near a fireplace indoors. But for some people, snow takes on a whole new meaning: skiing and snowboarding season!

If you're one of those individuals who can't wait to get out on the slopes and feel the wind rushing past you as you soar down the side of a mountain, you're probably already planning a trip. There are tons of fantastic ski resorts all over the world, and some definite favorite destinations for snowboarders. Maybe you already have a favorite resort that's like a second home to you, or maybe you're looking for somewhere new to go. Either way, it's sure to be a blast!

Iridium Next and backwards compatibility: what does that even mean? Iridium is in the process of launching their new satellite constellation, Iridium Next, and the service on Next will be Iridium Certus.  Multiple new data speed service levels and new hardware terminals are slated to hit the market over the course of the next two years, but what about everyone who already has invested in Iridium equipment, you may ask?  Enter the technical term "Backwards Compatibility" or in layman's terms, the ability of older equipment to work on new satellites.  Read more in this article.

Satellite Phones for Sled Dog Racing

For generations, sled dogs have been known as one of the few reliable ways to traverse large distances over frozen landscapes. In frozen areas like Alaska, Canada, and Greenland, some places today are still only accessible by sled. Sled dog teams have contributed to mail delivery, supply runs, and exploration and were a major part of the gold rush in the late 1800s to early 1900s. Roald Amundsen relied on teams of sled dogs during his groundbreaking expedition to the North Pole. Undoubtedly, these hardy, fearless, and intelligent dogs are a part of history.

The next generation for satellite communication is almost here, and it is called Iridium Certus.  For those who travel outside where normal cell coverage extends, satellite handhelds and internet terminals provide the ability to stay in touch with family, business contacts, and emergency personnel.  As we become increasingly reliant on technology, and specifically the internet, the need for faster and more reliable internet connections through portable satellite terminals has dramatically increased.

On October 9, 2017, ten more of the new Iridium NEXT satellites were launched from Vandenburg Air Force Base on board a Space X Falcon rocket.  About an hour after launch, each satellite was deployed one-at-a-time from a specially designed carrier module on the rocket's second stage.  Learn more here.

The Beauty and Wonder of the Appalachian Trail