SpaceNews.com
• Jason Rainbow
France has authorized U.S.-based Globalstar to launch and operate a 54-satellite next-generation constellation designed for direct-to-device connectivity. The company aims to begin deploying the satellites next year, marking a regulatory step toward expanding its space-based service.
Satellite
Latest source-backed stories
Thousands of inactive or non-communicating satellites orbit Earth in low Earth orbit, creating a challenge for operators that rely on spacecraft to signal their presence. Researchers are developing CORTEX, a system designed to guide a repair satellite to autonomously dock with these “zombie” spacecraft.
MDA Space said the delayed delivery of two Pathfinder satellites, intended to prove out Telesat’s Lightspeed constellation, will have no financial effect on its work as the constellation’s prime contractor. The company declined to specify the cause of the delay and is also positioning for U.S. and European military satellite business.
High activity
France has authorized U.S.-based Globalstar to launch and operate a 54-satellite next-generation constellation designed for direct-to-device connectivity. The company aims to begin deploying the satellites next year, marking a regulatory step toward expanding its space-based service.
France’s Defence Procurement Agency has awarded Thales Alenia Space and Airbus Defence and Space a contract to develop the IRIS military optical observation system. The award strengthens the companies’ positions in defense space and gives Airbus and Thales a role in expanding France’s military surveillance capabilities.
Earth-observation company Planet has booked launches with Stoke Space, adding a launch provider as it seeks to diversify access to space for its imaging spacecraft. The announcement links a satellite operator’s launch planning with a new launch provider, though the articles provide no schedule, vehicle, or contract details.
The Computer & Communications Industry Association released “Connecting the World: Unlocking the Potential of Satellite Connectivity,” a report examining how satellite technology could expand internet access, strengthen emergency communications and drive economic growth. The announcement provides no specific findings, recommendations or quantitative estimates from the report.
Ukraine’s parliament has approved in first reading a bill to establish Space Forces as a new branch of the armed forces. The proposal comes as the war highlights the military importance of space and Ukrainian concerns about reliance on foreign satellite communications.
Create a free account to see more recent Satellite stories and keep bookmarks in one place.
