LightSquared completes initial satellite/terrestrial tests

LightSquared Subsidiary L.L.C. said that it has completed post-launch testing and acceptance of its recently deployed SkyTerra 1 satellite with its Space-Based Network platform from Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems. The testing included the transmission of data between the satellite and four terrestrial gateways located in the United States and Canada.
The company, which is looking to provide a wholesale satellite/terrestrial-based mobile broadband network, noted the completed testing formed the first integrated wireless broadband and satellite network.
The satellite was originally launched last November from Kazakhstan’s Baikonur Cosmodrome, but suffered a technical glitch soon after reaching orbit that Boeing subsequently said it had fixed.
LightSquared recently announced the triggering of its “Phase 2” spectrum realignment deal with fellow satellite communications provider Inmarsat. The realignment is designed to free up spectrum resources for both operators.