Space42, alongside US-based Viasat, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Canada’s Terrestar Solutions to develop an interoperable satellite communications network. The collaboration will connect Terrestar’s planned Canadian low-Earth orbit (LEO) constellation, CaStar, with Equatys, the global satellite infrastructure platform co-founded by Space42 and Viasat.
The agreement aims to advance direct-to-device (D2D) satellite connectivity, enabling smartphones and other compatible devices to access satellite communication services. The proposed framework will also support advanced mobile satellite services for governments, enterprises and consumers, combining global network coverage with nationally controlled communications infrastructure.
Under the proposed arrangement, Terrestar will retain ownership and operational control of its Canadian satellite constellation, ground infrastructure and customer relationships while connecting with Equatys through common technical standards. The approach is designed to preserve national sovereignty and data security while allowing participating satellite networks to share capabilities, coordinate resources and improve network efficiency.
The collaboration represents the first application of Equatys’ proposed sovereign infrastructure model, which allows independently operated national or regional satellite systems to integrate with a shared global network. The partners intend to develop open technical interfaces aligned with international telecommunications standards, potentially reducing infrastructure costs and supporting wider adoption of satellite connectivity.
The announcement follows Space42 and Viasat’s binding agreement in September 2026 to establish Equatys, backed by combined equity commitments of up to USD 1 billion. The platform is being developed as a shared satellite and ground infrastructure business, designed to serve multiple telecommunications operators and satellite service providers rather than operating as an exclusive network.
Space42 Managing Director Karim Michel Sabbagh highlighted the opportunity to combine nationally controlled satellite systems with shared global infrastructure. Viasat Chairman and CEO Mark Dankberg emphasised the potential for open standards to support broader adoption of direct-to-device services, while Terrestar CEO Jacques Leduc outlined the company’s ambition to connect Canadian satellite infrastructure with international networks.
The MoU was signed during the official visit of Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to Canada, reflecting growing cooperation between the UAE, United States and Canada in satellite communications and advanced technologies.
The agreement supports Space42’s strategy to expand its international satellite connectivity activities through Equatys. However, the announcement does not disclose a separate investment commitment, contract value, implementation timeline or expected revenue contribution from the Terrestar collaboration. The proposed interoperability framework remains subject to further development and implementation.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment, financial, or legal advice.
