Globalstar Obtains FCC Approval for Satellite Phone Connectivity

Globalstar announced that the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has approved its third-generation "C3" system for operation in the United States, including direct connectivity between satellites and smartphones, as well as ground stations in six states and territories.

The system targets 48 satellites in low Earth orbit at an altitude of approximately 879 miles, along with about 90 ground antennas. The company stated that the approval decision itself is dated October 8.

This technology allows phones to connect directly to satellites without an external antenna or intermediate device, expanding coverage in remote areas. Companies in this field seek to bridge coverage gaps suffered by terrestrial networks.

The approval provides Globalstar with a regulatory framework to build a direct connectivity network in the US market, a market that needs coverage beyond the reach of terrestrial networks. The approval allows the company to proceed with building its ground stations and satellites.

What do these terms mean?

Direct Satellite Connectivity: A technology that connects a phone directly to a satellite without an intermediate ground station, used when cellular network coverage is unavailable.

Low Earth Orbit (LEO): A range of orbits close to Earth extending up to about 2,000 kilometers, reducing communication latency.

Federal Communications Commission (FCC): The US regulatory agency responsible for licensing communications, managing the frequency spectrum, and overseeing satellite services.