Globalstar and Manx Telecom to develop integrated cellular/mobile satellite service

The system will use Manx Telecom’s Smart SIM technology, which allows automatic handover between cellular networks when a device loses coverage from one carrier’s network. With EMN, if a terrestrial network is not available, connectivity will be provided by Globalstar’s system.

EMN also use Globalstar’s Low-Earth Orbit (1,410 km) satellite constellation, which provides lower latency communications than satellite constellation in higher orbits.

First Responder Auxiliary Network (FRAN) will be one of the first services to benefit from EMN. It will enable first responders to continue making and receiving calls when cellular networks become available. FRAN will be supported by Intelcomm, a specialist technical consultancy.

EMN will use similar technology to Globalstar's Sat-Fi product - a high-power satellite hotspot that enables up to eight users to simultaneously make calls or get online using their off-the-shelf Wi-Fi enabled devices even if they are beyond the reach of cellular networks. This means that unlike a system where satellites are used to provide backhaul connectivity to terrestrial masts, there is no need for permanent fixed terrestrial infrastructure. This eliminates a point of vulnerability as base stations can be damaged by extreme weather and this occurred in the UK last year.