Independent satellite specialist since 1998. Multiple networks, one honest recommendation. International and same-day shipping — call to arrange +44 20 7120 0009
satphone.co.uk
Four operators · one specialist

Networks

Each network has a different orbit, a different footprint and a different sweet spot. Independent of any single operator, we pick the right one for the job you're actually doing.

IRI
Iridium
66 LEO satellites
COVERAGE MAP · 66 ACTIVE SV
±90° — POLE TO POLE

The only network with verified coverage at both poles. A 66-satellite low-earth-orbit mesh that talks to itself — so a call routes through the constellation, not a single ground station. If you might be anywhere on Earth, this is the safe default.

±90°Pole to pole
66LEO satellites
~780kmOrbit altitude
Indicative footprint Open Iridium
INM
Inmarsat
GEO Equatorial fleet
AMERICAS · 98°WEMEA · 25°EASIA-PACIFIC · 143.5°E
COVERAGE MAP · I-4 / ALPHASAT
±76° — GEO FOOTPRINT

A fleet of geostationary satellites parked over the equator. From the ground each one looks fixed in the sky, which gives big, stable spot-beams suited to higher-bandwidth voice and data. Coverage extends to about 76° north and south — everywhere except the poles.

±76°Latitude reach
GEOEquatorial fleet
35,786kmOrbit altitude
Indicative footprint Open Inmarsat
THU
Thuraya
35,786km Orbit altitude
COVERAGE MAP · THURAYA-4
EMEA · CENTRAL ASIA

Geostationary coverage (Thuraya-4) across Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Central Asia. Thuraya specialises in light, pocketable handsets with GSM roaming fallback built in, at friendly hardware and airtime prices.

GEOThuraya-4 · geostationary
35,786kmOrbit altitude
186gXT-LITE handset weight
Indicative footprint Open Thuraya
GLS
Globalstar
~1,400km Orbit altitude
COVERAGE MAP · SATELLITE IoT
IoT — NOT VOICE COVERAGE
IoT COVERAGE

A 24-satellite low-earth-orbit constellation with a bent-pipe architecture — calls hop straight back to the nearest ground station. Inside the covered regions that gives clear voice and well-priced airtime; outside them there is no service at all, so check the footprint first.

24LEO satellites
~1,400kmOrbit altitude
9.6kbpsDuplex data
Indicative footprint Open Globalstar
Choose by job, not by brand

Start with where you're going.

The right network is a function of route, latitude and what you need to send. Coverage first, bandwidth second, budget third — in that order.

Anywhere on Earth

Poles, oceans, deserts — routes you cannot predict.

Iridium →

Bandwidth in the field

BGAN broadband, maritime fleets, fixed camps.

Inmarsat →

EMEA & Central Asia on a budget

Light handsets, GSM fallback, friendly pricing.

Thuraya →
Still not sure which network?

Tell us the trip. We'll tell you the network — honestly.

We will discuss the best equipment and network for your scenario and provide a bespoke quote for your needs — no pressure, no sales calls.