[Satellite TODAY 06-29-10] Globalstar has installed hardware and software upgrades at its satellite operations and control center (SOCC) in Milpitas, Calif., and its backup control center in El Dorado Hills, Calif., the company announced June 28. 
    The upgrades, provided by Thales Alenia Space, are required to support the 15-year plus lifespan of the new Globalstar second-generation satellite constellation scheduled for launch beginning in September or October.
    The new constellation, also designed and manufactured by Thales Alenia Space, aims to provide Globalstar customers with mobile satellite voice and data services through beyond 2025.
    Thales also is upgrading Globalstar’s telemetry and command units and in-orbit test hardware and software located at the various Globalstar gateway ground stations around the world. Combined with the SOCC improvements, these upgrades aim to provide Globalstar with the capability to administer increased second-generation satellite constellation mission operations command, support and control with minimal expert staffing and maximum task automation.