Globalstar got the green light to launch up to 17 new satellites next year, even though SpaceX wasn’t thrilled about it.
The FCC approved the satellites on August 16 and extended Globalstar’s operating license until 2039.
But, they need to update their plan for handling space junk before adding nine backup satellites.
Globalstar, based in Louisiana, runs 31 satellites; seven are licensed in the U.S., and the rest in France.
These satellites, originally launched over ten years ago, now also help with emergency services for iPhones, thanks to a partnership with Apple.
In 2022, Globalstar hired MDA from Canada to build 17 satellites, costing $327 million, with options for nine more. Apple is covering most of these expenses.
SpaceX will launch the new satellites, and Globalstar plans to get up to eight of them into orbit by 2025.
We hope everything goes smoothly with these launches.
Globalstar has stayed quiet about what these new satellites will bring for iPhone users.
SpaceX Opposition
SpaceX is working on its own smartphone satellite system as part of Starlink.
They asked the FCC to make sure Globalstar’s new satellites wouldn’t mess with their network.
The FCC sided with Globalstar, saying they didn’t need extra checks since the new satellites use already approved frequencies.
SpaceX also argued Globalstar should only replace U.S.-licensed satellites. The FCC disagreed, noting that all satellites serve the U.S.
Globalstar plans to phase out the French-licensed satellites so the entire fleet operates under U.S. licenses.
They were allowed 48 satellites before but want to cut that down to 26.
Debris Concerns
Globalstar’s satellites operate much higher than other systems, at 1414 kilometers.
If they lose control at around 700 kilometers, it could take 863 years for a satellite to naturally fall and burn up.
The FCC told Globalstar to take steps to avoid creating long-term space junk and submit a new risk analysis.
From 680-700 kilometers, they must show how the satellites will safely reach 1414 kilometers and later drop to 400 kilometers to de-orbit within five years.
“In particular, we note that the failure of a satellite at the insertion orbit or operational orbit would result in creation of long-term debris,” Kearney wrote.
Globalstar also needs to work with NASA to avoid messing up science missions and ground-based astronomy.
