
Satellite transmitted calls are now a reality. You most likely saw the news that the first ever satellite call between two smart phones via TerraStar-1 took place a couple of weeks ago. This “extra-terrestrial” event was particularly exciting for us as BroadWorks was the IP platform used to route the satellite call over TerreStar’s all-IP core network between 2 integrated satellite-terrestrial smartphones.
Individuals want and need continuous coverage for their voice, data and multimedia communications anywhere. In areas where wireless coverage doesn’t exist or when cell networks go down customers still want to use their phones.
Now with the successful completion of the first satellite call,– TerreStar can move forward and roll out their satellite – terrestrial mobile network service across the United States and Canada to help government, emergency responders, enterprises and rural communities solve communication challenges and enhance productivity and efficiency.
Skeptics who questioned the possibility of an integrated satellite/terrestrial network are now scratching their heads wondering what is next now that the concept has been proven and the technology tested.
Bottom line — IP is the only way this could have been done! The migration continues towards personalized communications – your message delivered your way, when and where you need it. And our BroadWorks platform is the first to support all these types of access – wireline, wireless, cable and now satellite.

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August 27, 2009 at 12:26 pm
William Holderby
So I am assuming that with the 4G network, the 400 milisecond delay normal to satellite communications is a thing of the past? Previous satellite communications sounded like ship-to-shore connections rather than telephony quality.
A couple of our customers in the south and CALA are flirting with this Terrestar offering. I am hoping some of my accounts adopt this, it is the wave of the future. Great article Scott!
Bill