Tuesday, August 20, 2024

FCC Reauthorizes Globalstar’s HIBLEO-4 Constellation for 15 Years

Globalstar has received a 15-year license extension from the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for its HIBLEO-4 satellite constellation. This reauthorization allows Globalstar to continue its exclusive operations in the Big LEO Band and deploy up to 26 replacement satellites, ensuring the company’s ability to meet growing demand for its satellite and communications solutions globally.

Key Points:

FCC grants a 15-year extension for Globalstar’s HIBLEO-4 satellite constellation license.

The extension includes authorization to operate up to 26 replacement satellites.

Globalstar continues exclusive operations in the Big LEO Band.

The reauthorization supports Globalstar’s mission to provide critical mobile satellite connectivity and lifesaving technology worldwide.

“Achieving this milestone is imperative to Globalstar to enable us to complete our mission of providing critical mobile satellite connectivity and lifesaving technology worldwide,” said Dr. Paul E. Jacobs, CEO of Globalstar.

  • In September 2022, Apple confirmed that its  iPhone 14 models feature an "Emergency SOS via satellite" capability delivered via Globalstar's constellation of LEO satellites, which cover approximately 80% of the Earth's surface.Designed for emergency communications when out of cellular or Wi-Fi range, the iPhone 14 user must have a clear view of the sky. Texting can take from seconds to several minutes. Messages are relayed from earth-to-ground stations to the nearest emergency...