RESTON, Va.-Constellation Communications Inc. selected Matra Marconi Space as prime contractor for the space segment of its low-earth-orbit satellite system. The initial contract is valued at $600 million.
Matra will be responsible for developing the system’s satellites and putting them in orbit. Constellation’s LEO system calls for a ring of 12 satellites to circle the equator and provide continuous service to more than 100 countries.
“The system’s initial focus is on providing affordable telephone service to rural and remote areas throughout the world where people have no telephone service at all,” said Bruce Kraselksy, chairman of Constellation.
“This approach is consistent with our business plan of using market demand to drive infrastructure development.”
