Amazon Leo has filed an application with the US Federal Communications Commission to deploy up to 5,105 low Earth orbit satellites for direct-to-device connectivity.
The proposed network would connect compatible smartphones and other mobile devices to voice, data, messaging and emergency services in areas beyond the reach of mobile towers. The company said deployment could begin in 2028, with services delivered through partnerships with mobile network operators.
The filing follows Amazon’s definitive merger agreement with Globalstar, announced in April. The planned acquisition includes Globalstar’s satellite operations, infrastructure and mobile satellite services spectrum, which Amazon Leo intends to use for the new system.
Amazon Leo said the direct-to-device network would operate alongside its existing and planned satellite broadband systems, as well as Globalstar’s HIBLEO and C-3 constellations. The satellites would be distributed across five orbital shells to provide coverage from mid-latitude regions to near-polar areas.
The system is designed to process signals in orbit and use optical links between satellites, digital beamforming and beam-hopping. According to the company, these technologies would improve spectrum efficiency, limit interference and support applications including disaster response, remote operations, fleet management and connectivity for remote sensors.
Amazon Leo said it already has more than 390 satellites in orbit for its first-generation broadband system.
Source: Zawya
