Globalstar Second Generation Satellite Constellation
Globalstar the world leader in satellite voice and data service announced they have signed an agreement with Alcatel Alenia Space which is a leader in European satellite systems to design Globalstar second generation satellite constellation. This second generation constellation would eventually replace Globalstar’s current constellation with a more advanced satellite system.Alcatel Alenia Space was a large contributor in the design and production of Globalstar’s current constellation making them a natural partner in this new project. This gives Alcatel Alenia Space a jumpstart on providing Globalstar with a cost effective second generation LEO system.
The president of Alcatel Alenia Space Pascale Sourisse stated Alcatel has been partnering with Globalstar from the early days. We are delighted to be selected and this demonstrates the confidence that Globalstar has in our company. As the only Space and Telecom expert, Alcatel will be partnering with Globalstar’s future Ancillary Terrestrial Component or (ATC) service.
Globalstar has successfully tested the ATC service and plans to move forward with the terrestrial component of their system buy using a type of cellular tower system complementing their satellite system. With the ATC system the Globalstar service will virtually work anywhere. Once the infrastructure is in place the Globalstar phone would use the satellite system when using the unit outside when indoor the satellite phone would switch to the terrestrial component.
Currently Globalstar provides satellite voice and data service to over 120 countries. Alcatel was a partner in the design and completion of Globalstar’s first constellation which included the supply of satellite payloads, heat control elements, satellite integration and gateways.
