SATELLITE PHONES

No matter where your next adventure takes you, stay connected with family and friends while you’re off the beaten track.

Globalstar

Using a constellation of LEO (Low Earth Orbiting) satellites and ground stations, Globalstar offers exceptional voice quality. Service is slightly degraded towards the equator as the Earth is much larger in that region and the distance between satellites is also greater so one may move out of view before another is within view which may result in call drop outs. Basically one of the satellites has to see you and a ground station to pass call data through. There are 3 ground stations in Australia in Mt Isa, Dubbo and Meekatharra.

Inmarsat

Using 3 satellites in a geosynchronous orbit (almost geo stationary – means they stay in one spot) and covers most of the Earth – except for the poles. In Aus we use 1 satellite which is at 143.5° east, basically above PNG. So long as you have a clear view in that direction, then you will have coverage.

Iridium

Using a constellation of 66 LEO (Low Earth Orbiting) satellites, Iridium has complete global coverage. Calls are routed from satellite to satellite to a ground station in Arizona then to the number called. Coverage may degrade a little towards the equator.

Individual phone descriptions are available at our online store here.