The FCC has granted Globalstar authority to operate its third-generation satellite constellation, referred to as the C-3 constellation. This constellation will operate in mobile satellite services (MSS) spectrum and provide direct-to-device services to smart phones.
Globalstar announced the approval Monday. The system includes 48 Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, six on-orbit spares, and 90 ground station antennas around the world.
Globalstar filed for the constellation in February of 2025 as a next-generation system operating in higher power after Apple invested to fund the constellation. MDA Space is building the satellites.
Globalstar is now going through a deal to be acquired by Amazon, which plans to operate both the C-3 constellation and a new Amazon D2D constellation of up to 5,105 satellites.
“Receiving this FCC authorization is a critical step forward for continuing to enhance the capabilities of our Low-Earth Orbit satellite constellations,” said Globalstar CEO Paul Jacobs. “This approval will ensure our ability to deliver next-generation satellite services that combine increased capacity, improved performance, and greater flexibility to users for years to come.”
