UAE-based Space42 has signed a memorandum of understanding with Viasat and Canada’s Terrestar Solutions to develop an open framework connecting Terrestar’s planned CaStar low-Earth orbit constellation with Equatys, a planned global platform for direct-to-device and other mobile satellite services.
The proposed framework would allow the two systems and their ground infrastructure to operate as a coordinated, multi-system non-terrestrial network. Each company would retain ownership and control of its assets, while using common, vendor-neutral interfaces aligned with recognised industry standards.
The companies said the model is intended to support global scale while preserving national sovereignty. In Canada, CaStar would operate as a Canadian-controlled system, with domestic gateways and ground infrastructure, while remaining interoperable with Equatys internationally.
The framework could also enable participating systems to coordinate resources such as power, satellite beams, capacity and gateway access. It is designed to accommodate additional satellite operators, mobile network operators and service providers over time.
The announcement follows a binding agreement signed by Space42 and Viasat in September 2026 to co-found Equatys, backed by up to $1B in combined equity commitments.
Source: Zawya
