Globalstar
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Globalstar is a low-earth-orbit satellite constellation for telephone and low-speed data communications, similar to (and competing with) the Iridium satellite system.
Globalstar differs from Iridium in two important ways. First, Globalstar satellites are simple bent pipe repeaters; there is no inter-satellite linking. Second, Globalstar orbits have
an inclination of 52 degrees, compared to the near-polar
86.4 degree orbits used by Iridium.
A network
of ground gateway stations provides connectivity from the satellites to the public switched telephone network. Because there is no inter-satellite
linking, a satellite must have a gateway station in view to provide
service to any users it may see. Because no gateway stations
cover certain remote areas (such as oceans far from land), no
service can be provided in those areas even though the satellites fly over them.
Globalstar also does not cover polar areas due to the lower orbital
inclination.
Despite (or because) of these limitations, Globalstar is significantly cheaper and can support somewhat higher data rates
than Iridium. However, neither system has been a commercial success.
Globalstar is a joint venture of Qualcomm and Loral Space and Communications.
External links
Referenced By
Bernard L. Schwartz | Communication satellite | Communications satellite | Comsat | Iridium (satellite) | Loral Corp. | Loral Space and Communications | Qualcomm | Satellite constellation | Space Systems/Loral | Telecommunications satellite
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