Space42 Partners With Viasat and Terrestar on Satellite Connectivity
The UAE’s Space42 has partnered with US satellite communications company Viasat and Canada’s Terrestar Solutions to expand direct-to-device satellite connectivity. The companies signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on October 28, 2026, to develop a shared framework linking their planned satellite networks.
The initiative also seeks to improve connectivity for mobile devices in areas where conventional cellular networks provide limited or no coverage. The companies plan to use open, industry-standard technology to connect their systems and support future mobile satellite services.
Equatys and CaStar to Connect Satellite Networks
Equatys aims to provide shared space and ground infrastructure for satellite operators and mobile satellite service providers. Instead of requiring each operator to build a separate global network, the platform will let participating systems work together through a common technical framework.
Meanwhile, Terrestar plans to develop CaStar as a Canadian-controlled LEO satellite constellation. Under the proposed arrangement, CaStar would retain its own infrastructure and national operating framework while connecting with Equatys for broader coverage.
Consequently, the partnership could help operators coordinate satellite capacity, coverage beams and ground gateway access more efficiently. The companies also expect the shared approach to reduce capital and operating costs.
The agreement follows Space42 and Viasat’s September 2026 binding agreement to establish Equatys, backed by up to US$1 billion in combined equity commitments. However, the venture’s formation and related agreements remain subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals.
Satellite Connectivity With National Control
A central feature of the proposed framework is its focus on national sovereignty. Each operator would retain ownership and control of its satellite assets, ground infrastructure and customers. At the same time, common standards would allow participating networks to interoperate internationally.
For Canada, the planned CaStar system would operate as a sovereign national network, supported by Canadian gateways and ground infrastructure. This arrangement aims to meet domestic regulatory and security requirements while enabling wider connectivity through Equatys.
The framework could also accommodate additional satellite systems, mobile network operators, and service providers in the future. The partners intend to build on established 3GPP non-terrestrial network standards that support integrating satellite services with mobile communications infrastructure.
Expanding the Direct-to-Device Market
Direct-to-device technology enables compatible smartphones and other devices to communicate with satellites without relying entirely on nearby terrestrial mobile towers. As a result, it could extend connectivity to remote communities, transport routes and other locations beyond conventional network coverage.
Space42 and Viasat are positioning Equatys as shared infrastructure for this emerging market. In addition, Terrestar’s participation could help connect nationally controlled satellite systems to a broader international network.
The collaboration reflects a wider industry shift towards interoperable satellite infrastructure. Nevertheless, the practical reach of the service will depend on constellation deployment, spectrum coordination, regulatory approvals and partnerships with mobile operators.
Ultimately, the agreement brings together companies from the UAE, the United States and Canada to explore a more connected satellite ecosystem. If the framework progresses as planned, it could support wider direct-to-device services while allowing countries to maintain control over critical communications infrastructure.
