In the last few days, Iridium 97 (27450,2002-031A), previously a spare satellite in orbital plane 4, has entered the operational constellation, evidently to replace Iridium 36 (24967, 1997-056C). Iridium 36 currently remains close to its nominal position in the constellation, and it is as yet unclear whether Iridium 36 has failed completely. Currently, if Iridium 36 retains its correct orientation, there is high potential for double flares, with these two satellite separated by only about 5 seconds in time. I have updated my Iridium Constellation Status page at http://www.rod.sladen.org.uk/iridium.htm to take account of the change. This appears to be the first change in the Iridium constellation since Iridium 21 entered the operational constellation to replace Iridium 74, almost exactly one year ago. -- Rod Sladen Beeston, Nottinghamshire, UK 52.923°N, 1.208°W ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Subscribe/Unsubscribe info, Frequently Asked Questions, SeeSat-L archive: http://www.satobs.org/seesat/seesatindex.html
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