Terrestar Solutions has signed a MoU with Space42 and Viasat to develop an interoperability framework linking its planned Canadian CaStar LEO constellation with Equatys, the global satellite infrastructure platform being established by Space42 and Viasat. The agreement aims to support direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity and advanced mobile satellite services through a shared, standards-based network architecture.
The proposed framework would allow CaStar and Equatys to operate as a coordinated multi-system non-terrestrial network (NTN) while retaining separate ownership and operational control. Terrestar would continue to manage its Canadian satellite and ground infrastructure, spectrum authorisations and customer relationships, while gaining the ability to exchange network resources and services with the wider Equatys platform.
A central feature is the development of open, vendor-neutral interfaces aligned with 3GPP NTN specifications and GSMA roaming and interconnection standards. These would support coordination of satellite beams, power, capacity and gateway access, alongside common mechanisms for resource allocation, monitoring, usage accounting and commercial settlement. The companies intend to reduce the need for proprietary integrations between individual satellite systems and improve the efficiency of shared infrastructure.
The arrangement introduces Equatys' proposed sovereign satellite infrastructure model, under which nationally controlled constellations can participate in a global network without transferring ownership of critical assets. In Canada, CaStar would retain domestic ground infrastructure and data-handling arrangements designed to meet national regulatory and security requirements, while supporting international connectivity through Equatys. The architecture is also intended to accommodate additional satellite operators, mobile networks and service providers.
The announcement follows a binding agreement between Space42 and Viasat in September 2026 to establish Equatys, supported by up to US$1 billion in combined equity commitments. Terrestar represents the first proposed application of the platform's sovereign interoperability approach, potentially establishing a model for other countries seeking nationally controlled satellite infrastructure alongside global service reach.