US mobile company launches world’s largest and most powerful commercial communications satellite
02 Jul 2009
US mobile communications provider TerreStar Networks Inc. (TerreStar), a majority-owned subsidiary of TerreStar Corporation, has launched TerreStar-1, the world's largest and most advanced commercial communications satellite.
The 6.9-tonne TerreStar-1 was launched yesterday into geostationary orbit by Ariane-5 heavy rocket from the European space base in Kourou, French Guiana.
Reston, Virginia-based TerreStar Networks said that the TerreStar-1 will deliver voice, data and video services on an all IP next-generation mobile broadband network throughout the US and Canada, with a spectrum footprint that covers a population of nearly 330 million.
The TerreStar-1, an all-IP core network, and the latest in smartphone technology will ensure network resiliency and availability during times of critical communications need.
"With the successful launch of TerreStar-1, we are redefining the mobile communications landscape," said Dennis Matheson, CTO of TerreStar. "We are creating a new paradigm in mobile broadband network services and devices that will leverage our integrated satellite and terrestrial communications components to enable true ubiquity and reliability - anywhere in the US and Canada."
"Today's launch is just the beginning of the TerreStar story," said TerreStar President, Jeff Epstein. "We believe there are tremendous opportunities ahead - in both the commercial and government sectors - and we remain focused on our promise to help solve the critical communications and business continuity challenges faced by government, emergency responders, enterprises and rural communities."