How Globalstar Works
Globalstar phones look and act like mobile or fixed phones with which you're familiar. The difference is that they can operate virtually anywhere, carrying your call and data over an exceptionally clear, secure Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) satellite signal.
Like "bent-pipes" or mirrors in the sky, the Globalstar constellation of Low Earth Orbiting (LEO) satellites picks up signals from over 80% of the Earth's surface, everywhere outside the extreme polar regions and some mid-ocean regions.
Path Diversity Technology
Soft Handoff Technology
Several satellites can pick up a call simultaneously, and this "path diversity" helps assure that the call is not dropped even if a phone moves out of sight of one of the satellites. If buildings or terrain block your phone signal, this "soft-handoff" prevents call interruption.
LEO Advantages
No Voice Delay
LEO satellites at 876 miles altitude mean no perceptible voice delay (latency)
Compact Phones
Lighter, smaller all-in-one phones without large external antennas
CDMA Security
Secure signal encryption ensures voice and data privacy
Affordable
Free phone with service plan, competitive per-minute rates
The Constellation
The Globalstar second-generation constellation consists of 32 Low Earth Orbiting (LEO) satellites manufactured by Thales Alenia Space. Each satellite operates at an altitude of 1,414km (approximately 876 miles).
Satellite Specifications
| Constellation Size | 32 LEO satellites |
| Orbital Altitude | 1,414 km (876 miles) |
| Architecture | Bent-pipe (mirror in the sky) |
| Frequency Bands | S-band and L-band antennas |
| Manufacturer | Thales Alenia Space |
Ground Infrastructure
Gateways are an integral part of the Globalstar ground segment. In addition to the gateways, the ground segment includes:
Ground Operations Control Center (GOCC)
Responsible for planning and controlling the use of satellites by gateway terminals. Plans the communications schedule for the gateways and controls satellite resource allocation.
Satellite Operations Control Center (SOCC)
Manages the Globalstar satellite constellation. Tracks satellites, controls their orbits, and provides telemetry and command (T&C) services. Also oversees satellite launch and deployment activities.
Gateways
Each gateway receives transmissions from orbiting satellites, processes calls, and switches them to the appropriate ground network. Consists of three or four dish antennas, a switching station, and remote operating controls.
Globalstar Data Network (GDN)
The connective network providing wide-area intercommunications facilities for the gateways, GOCC, and SOCC.
Why Bent-Pipe?
Because all switches and complex hardware are located on the ground rather than in space, it is easier for Globalstar to maintain and upgrade its system. The system's software resides on the ground, enabling fast and easy maintenance and upgrades.
Coverage Area
Globalstar provides coverage across most of North America, South America, Europe, Australia, and parts of Asia. For travelers needing coverage in remote ocean regions, polar areas, or central Africa, Iridium offers more comprehensive global coverage.