RMS Express version 1.3.7.3 adds the IridiumGO connection option to Winlink.
IridiumGO rental and data plans are becoming less expensive.
An external commercial antenna for the IridiumGO is recommended, or maybe some home brew version for 1.6 GHz.
Receiving satellites is easy nowadays.
See this contact via AMSAT SO-50, using a home brew antenna.
2m and 70cm.
The satellite flies over 90 minutes apart, 3 times in the morning or evening (give or take).
Some of the 66 Iridium satellites are overhead 24/7.
It might be feasible to use a hobby drone as a antenna pole or digipeater support with the latest advances in the drone hobby.
Some of them are getting less expensive and more powerful.
Could also be used as aerial TV platform over a disaster area in the same time.
Something else for the go-kit ?