Globalstar-based Satcom System Makes Debut

Northern Airborne Technology, a British Columbia-based subsidiary of the Chelton Group, last month introduced a lightweight satcom system that routes calls through the Globalstar network of 48 low-earth-orbit satellites. The system consists of the STX100 transceiver, PTA12 dialer/adapter and a Globalstar antenna, and provides coverage over about 80 percent of the earth, including polar regions and some mid-oceanic regions. Pilots and passengers can place calls using the PTA12 and the aircraft’s audio system or a telephone handset. Needed hardware sells for a list price of about $15,000 and Globalstar service starts at $34.95 per month with 30 included minutes.