FCC Authorizes Globalstar's C-3 Constellation for Direct-to-Device

The FCC has granted Globalstar authority to operate its third-generation C-3 constellation for direct-to-device services to smartphones. The system comprises 48 LEO satellites, six on-orbit spares and 90 ground station antennas, with MDA Space building the satellites. Apple funded the constellation, and Globalstar is being acquired by Amazon, which plans its own D2D network of up to 5,105 satellites.

• C-3 constellation includes 48 LEO satellites and 6 on-orbit spares
• Ground segment spans 90 antennas worldwide
• MDA Space is building the satellites for Globalstar
• Amazon plans to buy Globalstar and deploy up to 5,105 D2D satellites