Introduction
When you use an Iridium satellite phone, whether at the scene of a natural or man-made disaster; to coordinate research in the middle of the ocean; or to check-in with emergency rescue teams in Antarctica, you are guaranteeing yourself reliable and globally-connected satellite phone coverage. Iridium satellite phones are the ideal solution for anyone venturing off-grid and need a means of staying connected with the world they leave behind.
Connect Globally with Iridium Satellite
Iridium's satellite network of 66 Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites provides a range of services, including voice, messaging, data, and Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity. Users can access the network through a variety of devices, chief of which are satellite phones.
To connect globally with Iridium, users need a compatible device and an active monthly or pay-as-you-go subscription plan. We offer a range of subscription plans designed to meet the needs of different individuals, from occasional travellers to heavy data users.
Iridium Offers Communication Reliability
Iridium provides coverage to every part of the globe, including remote and rugged locations where traditional cell or mobile coverage may be non-existent.
Iridium's network is designed to provide seamless, global coverage, with a network of 66 LEO satellites that work together to provide coverage and redundancy. Iridium’s satellites are equipped with advanced technology that allows them to communicate with each other and with ground stations, ensuring that users can always stay connected.
Iridium's satellite phones and other devices are also designed to be rugged and reliable, able to withstand harsh environments and extreme weather conditions. The devices are also equipped with features like GPS and SOS buttons, making them critically important in an emergency.
Iridium Satellite FAQ
Below are some of the frequently asked questions from our Iridium satellite phone UK and international customers.
- What is my Iridium Phone Number?
Your Iridium phone number is sent to you by email once SIM activation is complete. The phone number is a 12 digit number formatted as 8816XXXXXXXX. Please note phone numbers are only allocated on activation - we cannot provide phone numbers for inactive SIMs.
- How Do I Send a Free Text Message to an Iridium Phone?
Iridium allow you to send free SMS to any Iridium phone through their website http://messaging.iridium.com. All you need is the Iridium phone number starting 8816.
Alternatively you can send a free SMS to any Iridium phone by email. Simply send an email to "Your Iridium Phone Number"@msg.iridium.com e.g. 8816XXXXXXXX@msg.iridium.com
Enter your message (a maximum of 160 characters applies) in the message body only. (Any text entered in the subject field is ignored) You can send a maximum of five messages in a ten minute period. Messages greater than 5 will be deleted.
- How Do I Activate My Iridium SIM Card?
Your Iridium SIM can be activated by contacting us with your ICCID (number beginning 898 printed on the SIM). Iridium activations are usually completed within half an hour.
- How Much Does It Cost to Receive Calls on My Iridium Phone?
It is free to receive calls on your Iridium sat phone.
- How Much Does It Cost to Receive Calls From An Iridium Phone?
It is free to receive calls from an Iridium sat phone.
- How Much Does It Cost to Receive SMS Messages From An Iridium Satellite Phone?
It is free to receive text messages from an Iridium sat phone.
- Can I Access the Internet from My Iridium Phone?
Yes. Iridium offers data services which allow you to access the internet by connection your phone to a computer.
What Do I Need to Connect My Iridium 9555 Satellite Phone To A Computer?
The Iridium 9555 sat phone comes with a USB data cable to allow connection a computer. We also recommend you download the Iridium Direct Internet 2.0 software to benefit from enhanced data speeds.
Iridium Satellite Phones Currently Available
At Global Telesat Communications, we offer the two Iridium flagship satellite phones: the Iridium Extreme and the Iridium 9555. Both phones are of exceptional quality and come packed full of communication and connectivity features. The only difference is the Extreme allows for GPS tracking and SOS triggering in an emergency, whereas the 9555 does not have these abilities.
The key features on both phones are as follows:
- Satellite Voice Connectivity
Using Iridium’s global satellite network, both phones allow you to make and receive phone calls anywhere in the world. The phone offers an integrated speakerphone and hands-free capability through a headset included as standard.
- SMS & Email
Both Iridium satellite phones are SMS and email enabled, allowing you to stay in touch and share experiences with others anywhere in the world. SMS and email messaging is limited to 160 characters and delivery/receipt is dependent on compatibility with local mobile network carriers.
- Data Tethering
Connect an Iridium phone to your laptop via USB cable to enable email and low speed data using the only truly global communications network. Satellite phone data speeds are typically very slow so we recommend using the phone for basic data connections. We recommend using the RedPort Optimizer and our compression software, SpeedMail, to enhance your data connection experience.
- Memory
Iridium phones have a 100-entry internal address book, with capacity for multiple phone numbers, email addresses and notes, and the SIM card address book has an additional 155-entry capacity. The call history retains records of received, missed and dialled calls.
As always, our team of experts is here to help. So, if you need any advice about Iridium satellite phones, contact us via:
- Email: info@gtc.co.uk
- Phone: 0800 112 3919
