Two weeks ago the 2 GHz mobile satellite service (MSS) satellite TerreStar-1 reached geosynchronous orbit.
This Monday, "the world's largest, most advanced commercial communications satellite (TerreStar-1)" was used to complete a call between two of TerreStar's quad-band GSM and tri-band WCDMA/HSPA smartphones.
TerreStar's system is based on an all-IP core network. The smartphones have integrated satellite-terrestrial voice and data capabilities. Part of the spectrum used by TerreStar was reallocated from the 2 GHz broadcast auxiliary spectrum.
"This call shows how TerreStar is delivering a new standard in mobile broadband network services and devices that leverage our integrated satellite and terrestrial communications components to enable true ubiquity and reliability--anywhere in the United States and Canada," said Jeffrey Epstein, President of TerreStar. "From now on, TerreStar means connected."
The company's CTO, Dennis Matheson, added his thanks to those who brought the system to operational status.
"We have now certified that our network is operational and that TerreStar-1, our handset and our core network are all performing well, Matheson said. "While the call was completed quickly, it represents years of hard work and innovation by the TerreStar team of dedicated employees and our partners. Thank you all for your contributions to our success today."
In-orbit testing continues.
