LightSquared 's wholesale Long Term Evolution (LTE) network took another step forward Monday with word that its satellite network successfully completed testing with the SkyTerra 1 satellite and Space-Based Network (SBN) from Boeing Space and Intelligence. (See LightSquared's Satellite Net Gets Green Light.)

LightSquared, which intends to start offering services by the third quarter of 2011, said Boeing has completed its work on integrating the satellite's communications links with the ground segment "to form the first integrated wireless broadband and satellite network."

SkyTerra 1, equipped with a 22-meter L-Band antenna, will be used to relay signals to and from four LightSquared terrestrial gateways located in the U.S. and Canada.

LightSquared says it has already signed its first customers, which remain unnamed.

Why this matters
Completion of in-orbit testing removes a key technical hurdle from LightSquare's journey toward the launch of an integrated terrestrial and satellite network that would power its speedy LTE wholesale offering.

The resulting network aims to help LightSquared meet federal mandates for coverage of more than 90 percent of the U.S. population by the end of 2015.

For more
For a recap of LightSquared's progress, please check out:

• LightSquared Grabs More Spectrum, Customers
• LightSquared Confident in Q3 Launch Schedule
• FCC Lets LightSquared Pass 'Go'
• LightSquared Names LTE Suppliers
• LightSquared Eyes L-Band for LTE

— Jeff Baumgartner, Site Editor, Light Reading Cable