Globalstar Wins FCC Authorization for Its C-3 Satellite Network, a Step Toward Direct-to-Smartphone Service
Globalstar received FCC authorization to operate its third-generation C-3 network across the U.S.: 48 low Earth orbit satellites, six in-orbit spares and about 90 ground antennas. The approval is a regulatory milestone, not a service launch.
Globalstar (GSAT) received authorization from the Federal Communications Commission to operate its third-generation C-3 satellite network across the United States, a step toward future direct-to-smartphone connectivity. The approval is a regulatory milestone. It does not confirm that commercial service on the new network has launched.
What the FCC approved
The authorization covers satellite communications with mobile devices nationwide, along with ground stations in six U.S. locations. C-3 is designed to expand the capacity, performance and flexibility of Globalstar's mobile satellite services, according to the announcement.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Network | Third-generation C-3 constellation of 48 low Earth orbit satellites plus six in-orbit spares |
| Ground segment | Approximately 90 ground antennas worldwide |
| U.S. coverage | Satellite communications with mobile devices nationwide |
| U.S. ground stations | Alaska, Hawaii, Nevada, Texas, Florida and Puerto Rico |
| Purpose | Expand capacity, performance and flexibility; enable future direct-to-smartphone connectivity |
What it does and does not mean
Regulatory authorization is a necessary step before a satellite network can offer service in the U.S., but it is not the last one. The approval does not say when the 48 satellites will be in orbit or when consumer or partner services will begin. Investors should treat the news as progress on licensing, not as evidence of near-term revenue. We did not find a verified premarket price move for GSAT in the sources reviewed, so none is reported here.
Readers also read
T-Mobile Plunges 13% as SpaceX's Reported $8 Billion Spectrum Deal Rattles AT&T and Verizon
ResearchMicron Is Stalling on Peak Fears, but Memory Prices Haven't Gotten the Memo
ResearchGoogle Gives Gemini Its Own Email Address and a Job: What the Workplace Agent Means for Alphabet Stock
RecapWeek Ahead: Fed Minutes, Five Fed Speakers and the First Big Earnings of Q3 Season
MarketCatalyst LLC is not a registered investment advisor and does not manage client assets. Content on this platform is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not investment advice, and MarketCatalyst is not a stock-picking or trade-alert service. Trading stocks and options involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. Consider your own goals, time horizon, and risk tolerance, and consult a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decision.