The RCR research and editorial staffs have compiled this list of mobile satellite carriers based on
interviews with industry contacts. The list is arranged alphabetically because most companies are not yet offering
service and therefore cannot be ranked by subscriber numbers.
Many of the companies plan to use their networks to
provide wireless telecommunications services to both fixed and mobile terminals. Those with intentions to provide
primarily fixed applications were excluded from the list. Companies that resell service from other companies already
on the list also were excluded.
The previous year was an especially significant one for the MSS industry as it
marked the commercial launch of Iridium L.L.C.’s voice and paging network, the first of several global voice systems
planned. While the expected deadline for service rollout was delayed because of some satellite failures and handset
testing problems, Iridium’s commercial availability has drawn a new level of attention to the industry.
Also of note
last year was a decision by the Federal Communications Commission’s International Bureau to authorize licenses for
several so-called little LEO operators. Using a network of low-earth-orbit satellites much like the satellite voice
providers, little LEO satellites use a different bandwidth, which allows for data transmission only.
Receiving
permission to operate were Final Analysis Communications Services Inc., Orbcomm Global L.P. and Volunteers in
Technical Assistance. LEO One USA Corp. had received authorization earlier. The little LEO regulatory process is not
over, however. Final Analysis still is in negotiations with the FCC to expand its satellite network to 32.
Orbcomm
also began offering its services commercially last year. The company hopes to launch another eight satellites this year
to expand its coverage and capacity over the equatorial region.
Of the other global LEO voice system operators,
Globalstar L.P. expects to begin service in September, followed by ICO Global Communications in 2001 and
Constellation Communications Inc. the following year. – 1999, Crain Communications Inc.
