FCC OKs Globalstar next-gen system

The Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Space Bureau has granted Globalstar nationwide regulatory authority to operate its third-generation C-3 satellite constellation. The FCC approval authorises the telecommunications provider to utilise its licensed Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) spectrum to deliver direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity to commercial smartphones across the US, and clearing the operational path for the space architecture supporting Apple’s satellite communication services.

Apple is in the process of acquiring Globalstar. It is paying $11.6 billion. Globalstar has contracts in place to supply satellite connectivity to Apple phones.

The authorised Globalstar C-3 constellation comprises 48 operational low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites and six on-orbit spares, bringing the total approved fleet to 54 spacecraft. The craft will operate from 1414 kms altitude. The primary satellite manufacturing is led by MDA Space.

Registered in France, the C-3 system is connected to 90 6-metre-diameter ground antennas globally. Command/control of the system is from Toulouse, France.

The FCC order establishes strict orbital compliance milestones, requiring Globalstar to launch and operate at least 50 per cent of the 48 authorised operational satellites by October 11th, 2032. Globalstar expects to launch its initial tranche of 12 C-3 satellites into an initial 60-kilometre transfer orbit in early to mid-2027 before raising the spacecraft into their final orbital positions.

Categories: Articles, Broadband, Business, Companion devices, MNO, Mobile, Policy, Regulation, Satellite, Spectrum

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