[Satellite TODAY 07-20-10] Globalstar hailed the U.S. Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) initiation of proceedings to make wireless spectrum available for mobile broadband networks using mobile satellite services (MSS) spectrum in a company statement released July 19.
    The FCC released July 16 a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and Notice of Inquiry following a unanimous vote to consider the mobile broadband spectrum allocation proposal. Three frequency bands that are allocated to the MSS are capable of supporting broadband service, including the LEO bandwidth from 1610-1626.5 megahertz and 2483.5-2500 megahertz.
    “We appreciate the FCC’s recognition of the important public safety and rural connectivity services already provided by Globalstar and we expect to play an expanded role in building the world’s fastest and most innovative mobile broadband networks here in the United States. With the launch of our second-generation satellite constellation expected to begin in less than 90 days, we are well positioned to help fulfill the FCC’s goal of ensuring that the MSS industry remains robust while looking for ways to utilize Globalstar’s spectrum to advance the goals of the Broadband Plan,” Globalstar CEO Peter Dalton said in a statement.