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Integrator’s Reference Manual
A-2 80-99208-1 Rev. D
Space Segment
The space segment consists of 48 LEO satellites (and eight
additional in-orbit spares) built by Loral Space Systems and
operated by Globalstar Limited Partnership (GLP) in San
Jose, CA.
Compared to medium-Earth-orbit or geostationary-
Earth-orbit (MEO/GEO) satellites, LEO satellites offer
several advantages: minimal delay (~250 ms or comparable to
terrestrial digital cellular), multi-satellite handoff, extremely
small antenna, lower power consumption, and lower cost.
Ground Segment
The ground segment consists of Earth stations called
Gateways, which provide service in specific geographical
areas. The Gateways are deployed worldwide and
communicate via C-band frequencies to/from the LEO
satellites, which serve as “bent pipe” transponders.
User Terminals communicate to/from a Gateway ground
station using L- and S-band frequencies, via the LEO
satellites.
A User Terminal can be either a QUALCOMM Globalstar
GSP-1600 Tri-Mode Phone, or QUALCOMM Globalstar
GSP-1620 Satellite Data Modem.
Coverage
Figure A-1 shows Globalstar coverage areas and availability
dates.