The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has given partial approval to iPhone communications company Globalstar to launch 26 satellites to upgrade and expand its existing mobile communications network, despite an attempt by SpaceX to block the decision.
Image source: SpaceNews/Apple/Globalstar
The new satellites will replace the outdated first-generation Globalstar satellites, located in low Earth orbit at an altitude of 1,414 kilometers, PCMag reports. As the company said in response to the FCC approval, this “should result in improved performance and expanded coverage of Globalstar’s mobile satellite services, including Direct to Device (D2D) satellite connections directly to a specific device around the world.”
Globalstar initially received permission to deploy 17 satellites, and the remaining 9 will be allowed after the Commission approves an updated plan to reduce the risk of space debris. In its approval, the FCC noted that Globalstar’s mobile satellite communications system has “operated continuously in the United States for more than two decades, serving more than 760,000 end users, with millions more potentially able to access its emergency communications service directly from their phone.” The FCC also added that eight of Globalstar’s replacement satellites are scheduled to launch before the end of 2025.
Interestingly, Globalstar received FCC approval to launch satellites despite the objections of SpaceX, which is preparing to launch its own satellite Internet service for mobile phones this fall. SpaceX tried to block an update to Globalstar’s satellites, arguing that the company had failed to provide an analysis of how it would prevent radio interference and space debris from the satellite constellation. Ultimately, however, the FCC said, “We conclude that SpaceX’s arguments are insufficient to deny or deny Globalstar’s application.”
The FCC’s approval to launch new satellites from Apple partner Globalstar is also important news for iPhone users, as it will improve the quality and availability of satellite communications, which are especially needed in emergency situations.