Alcatel studies new constellation

Satellite services company Globalstar has awarded Alcatel Alenia Space a study contract for the design of a new satellite constellation.

Satellite services company

Globalstar

has awarded

Alcatel Alenia Space

a study contract for the design of a new satellite constellation aimed at replacing Globalstar's first generation satellites.

Alcatel Alenia Space will research requirements and submit the design for a new constellation architecture based on low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites with an extended life span.

The current Globalstar LEO constellation provides telecommunication coverage to over 120 countries. The satellites’ relative proximity enables voice and data signals to travel quickly, resulting in clearer communications without unnecessary transmission delays.

Alcatel Alenia Space participated in the design of the complete first generation system and was responsible for the supply of satellite payloads, structures, heat control elements and part of the gateways as well as satellite integration.