Globalstar builds new Wasilla satellite.

• Position: COMMUNICATIONS

Hand held satellite phone provider Globalstar LLC has begun construction of a new satellite gateway in Wasilla to enhance satellite voice and data services, including e-mail, Internet access and enterprise data solutions in Alaska and the Yukon. Officials expect the gateway to become fully operational in mid-2006, subject to Federal Communications Commission approval.

"Once operational, this will be the first satellite phone service specifically for Alaskans--the first mobile satellite services gateway in Alaska, the first satellite phone with a 907 area code, and the first satellite service that is truly affordable to the average Alaskan," said Jay Monroe, chairman and CEO of Globalstar. "We are also actively building a distribution network throughout the state and...