Alcatel Alenia Space to begin study for design of Globalstar second-generation satellite constellation
MILPITAS, Calif. - Globalstar, a world leader in providing mobile satellite voice and data services to business, announced today that it has signed a study agreement with European satellite systems leader Alcatel Alenia Space, for the design of the service provider’s next generation satellite constellation. Under the agreement Alcatel Alenia Space will conduct a study to evaluate a new Globalstar low-earth orbit or LEO satellite system, designed to replace the company’s current constellation.
Because Alcatel Alenia Space had a significant role in the design and production of the current Globalstar satellite system, the company already has a strong appreciation of Globalstar’s system requirements. Alcatel Alenia Space will perform an analysis of the company’s future requirements and propose a conceptual design for a next generation LEO constellation.
“Globalstar is pleased by Alcatel’s strong commitment to our rapidly growing business”, said Jay Monroe, Chairman and CEO of Globalstar, Inc. Mr. Monroe went on to add, “Alcatel Alenia Space is uniquely positioned to provide Globalstar with a cost effective solution for a second generation LEO satellite system. Alcatel’s demonstrated satellite and network telecommunications capabilities combine to offer Globalstar a highly competitive solution for meeting our future service needs.”
Pascale Sourisse, President and CEO of Alcatel Alenia Space stated, “Alcatel has been partnering with Globalstar from the very early days. We are delighted to have been selected and this announcement demonstrates the continued confidence and trust that Globalstar has in our company.” Ms. Sourisse added, “As the only Space and Telecom expert, Alcatel is also very pleased to be given the opportunity to participate in Globalstar’s future Ancillary Terrestrial Component (ATC) service and to assist with an integrated satellite and terrestrial network.”
The current Globalstar constellation provides satellite voice and data service coverage to over 120 countries around the world. The relative proximity of the LEO constellation enables the Globalstar signals to travel quickly, resulting in clear and reliable communications, without any perceptible voice delays. Alcatel Alenia Space participated in the design of the complete first generation Globalstar system and was responsible for the supply of satellite payloads, structures, heat control elements and part of the gateways as well as satellite integration.