Terrestar exec tempers expectations for LEO satellites

ORILLIA, ONT.—A senior executive at one of Canada’s leading satellite companies suggested traditional cellular service is “much superior” to what low-earth orbit (LEO) offerings will be able to provide individual consumers, cooling expectations for technology that many view as key to eliminating the country’s digital divide. “If you can get , it's the technology of choice,” said David Lewis, vice-president of space systems and corporate alliances at Terrestar Solutions Inc. during a keynote address at the annual conference of Canada’s Rural and Remote Broadband Community (CRRBC). He added that LEO technology isn’t projected to replace existing mobile coverage, but rather “provide a complementary solution.” Some industry stakeholders, as well as the federal government, view LEO satellites as the most efficient way to provide baseline coverage to rural and remote regions, many of which aren’t currently covered by cell towers. Satellites are already used in certain areas to access high-speed internet, using services like Space Exploration Technologies Corp.’s Starlink fleet. Meanwhile, Amazon.com Inc. and the Canadian firm Telesat Corp. are expected to launch constellations in the near future. Terrestar, a Montreal-based company, is also developing an LEO service that will provide satellite-to-mobile coverage and an Internet of Things (IoT) service, as opposed to focusing on broadband for residential users. The company will begin launching satellites over the next couple years, with commercial service expected by 2028. “We expect continuous advancements in services and coverage to continue in Canada over the next few years,” Lewis told the crowd at CRRBC on Thursday morning. “Starting today with SOS emergencies, messages and texting, voice calls around the corner. Progress towards 5G data speeds will require new fleet deployments, however, some of which are planned in the next year or two.” “Regrettably, those services won’t serve all areas of Canada, but new satellite services are coming, including from Terrestar.” Lewis did not elaborate on why LEO technology may not cover all parts of Canada, though he emphasized Terrestar will focus on providing “seamless connectivity and global roaming” in the country’s Arctic, where he expects the company to be the sole service provider. “Rural communities contribute so much to this country, and they deserve practical tools that can help them close the connectivity gap,” he said. “For communities, it's all about better access to services and better mobile coverage that supports telehealth, remote learning, online government services, digital banking, tourism, local business, and agriculture.” “It’s another layer of connectivity that provides improved safety, confidence, and even business opportunity.” The CRRBC conference is set to conclude later on Thursday. dlegree@thewirereport.ca

Terrestar exec tempers expectations for LEO satellites

Telecom |
By Davis Legree
|June 11, 2026

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Terrestar exec tempers expectations for LEO satellites

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