Sunday, May 26, 2013

Choose your adventure in Utah’s Canyonlands National Park


Moab, Utah, from above; most travelers interested in seeing the Great Gallery start here.
The best adventures are the ones you have to work for, so if you’re aching to have some fun far away from the office, consider visiting the remotely located “Great Gallery” in Utah’s Canyonlands National Park. Although getting to the collection of ancient rock art requires quite the hike, travelers get to experience some of the most important pictographs in North America, as archaeologists still have questions about what the bizarre humanoid figures–one of which rises 7 feet tall–actually mean. After you’ve investigated the gallery, Canyonlands National Park and the city of Moab offer plenty of other sites to keep you busy. Check out these photos of the path to the Great Gallery, as well as some of its sister attractions.
To get to the Great Gallery, travelers have to drive 47 miles along a dirt road and then hike seven miles into Horseshoe Canyon. If you make the trek during the winter, you’ll likely be the only person in the canyon, which makes it easy to picture yourself back in time, walking in step with the ancient Native Americans, who archaeologists believe inhabited the area as early as 9,000 B.C. Whatever season you visit, remember to bring lots of water because the hike is strenuous.
As you hike toward the Great Gallery you will see a rock alcove that’s about 200 feet wide and 100 feet tall. The alcove also features ancient pictographs, but unfortunately modern people have damaged many of them by carving their names over the pictures, which is pretty disappointing to see, to say the least.
The Great Gallery measures about 200 feet wide and 15 feet high and consists of 20 life-size and humanoid images, the largest of which measures 7 feet. Although archaeologists have differing opinions on when they believe these pictographs were created, some argue it was after 1,900 B.C.
This panel is known as the “Great Ghost and Attendants,” with the large figure being the “Great Ghost.” While archaeologists don’t know what these chilling figures represent, some believe the Great Ghost is a picture of an ancient North American inhabitant wearing a buffalo robe. Conspiracy theorists, however, argue the Great Ghost is extraterrestrial in nature, which may be why the Great Gallery has been featured on the History Channels popular show “Ancient Aliens.”
A close-up of one of the figures in the Great Gallery.
Part of the Great Gallery; in the lower left you can see humans hunting animals.
There are several other attractions near Moab besides the Great Gallery, including the Mesa Arch above. It’s such a popular spot that as many as 75 photographers have been known to line up to capture its image during sunrise.
The 65-foot Delicate Arch is one of the most photographed arches in the world, and it’s featured on Utah license plates. Getting to the arch is easy and only requires about a 1.5-mile hike.
The arch has been photographed so many times that I wanted to get a unique perspective, so I used a 1-hour exposure to create star trails. The star at the center is Polaris, or the North Star, and you can see a satellite trail in the upper left-hand corner of the photo. I illuminated the arch with a flashlight.
Archaeologists don’t know the origin of this stone circle or its purpose, and park rangers don’t advertise it in any tourist brochures or visitors centers because they’re afraid of vandalism. It sits inside a remote canyon that some believe is the quietest spot in the United States, and when you rest here after the long and steep hike required to find it you can hear ravens flap their wings above you. You cannot see any roads or modern buildings from this spot, and the eerie silence makes it easy to believe that an ancient American Indian could walk up and sit beside you at any moment.
The Colorado River carved these canyons; this spot is adjacent to one of the Canyonlands National Park’s visitor’s centers.
http://www.grindtv.com/outdoor/outposts/post/choose-your-adventure-in-utah-s-canyonlands-national-park/

Mammoth Find on the Blackstone River in 2006




If you ask longtime Yukon bush pilot Ernie Onofferchuck which guide knows the territory’s remote rivers better than anyone else, without pause he’ll name Blaine Walden. For the last 25 years, Walden (left) has been guiding Yukon canoe trips. He even honeymooned in the Yukon by dogsledding to a backcountry cabin.

In August, Walden invited me to join him on an exploratory expedition on the remote Blackstone River. Our group included two repeat clients from previous Walden-guided paddling trips.

The Blackstone is one of six waterways in the infrequently traveled Peel River basin. This is unspoiled country, but several energy and mining companies are lobbying to get their hands on it, so it may not stay that way much longer.

Demonstrating the exploratory nature of our canoe trip, we found two 40-pound mammoth tusks protruding from the Blackstone’s steep riverbank. It’s illegal to remove such priceless specimens, but chances are they would have been washed into the river and lost. To preserve them, Walden opted to deliver the tusks to government scientists once we arrived in Whitehorse. Paleontologist Paul Matheus told us the tusks are 25,000 to 40,000 years old. While such findings are fairly common in the Klondike goldfields to the south, they are quite rare in this part of the Yukon Territory.

The Blackstone River courses through rugged, mountainous country featuring spectacular 6,000-foot-high peaks and unusually sculpted rock formations. It flows into the Peel River, down which we transported the mammoth tusks in our canoes. The Peel lacks the Blackstone’s scenic grandeur, but lined with mile after mile of blazing golden aspens, it was a constant reminder of the changing season.

The Blackstone is a comfortable Class II paddle, but during our final day on the Peel River we were confronted with stretches of Class III and IV whitewater, some of which we chose to portage or line. Our expedition was more about enjoying the beauty of this wild and remote place than pushing our limits.


For more information about paddling the Blackstone River, contact Walden’s Guiding & Outfitting at www.waldensguiding.com, or call (867) 667-7040, or e-mail info@waldensguiding.com.

Kayaking expedition explores “Nobody’s River”


Four paddlers plan 2,500-mile journey down Amur River, third-largest free-flowing river in world, to bring awareness to challenges rivers face

four women kayakers

The Amur River is the third-largest free-flowing river in the world. No dams. No diversions. It originates in Mongolia and stretches 2,500 miles along the China-Russia border to the Sea of Okhotsk.
kayakers journey
Four women sharing a passion for adventure, kayaking, and keeping rivers wild will attempt to take a 70-day journey down this relatively unknown waterway, collecting scientific data, documenting what they find, and bringing awareness to the challenges facing global rivers.
As reported by Canoe & Kayak, the expedition entitled Nobody’s River is part of a National Geographic Young Explorers Grant-sponsored initiative. The project name originates from the political tension between China and Russia that has kept the Amur River free flowing.
Americans Becca Dennis, Sabra Purdy, and Amber Valenti, along with Australian photographer Krystle Wright, will begin their journey June 1.
The river itself is primarily flat water, so the four women—all whitewater kayakers—will be exchanging the adrenaline of big drops for the thrill of the unknown. “I feel really lucky to travel on a river like this,” says Dennis. “There’s no guidebook. It’s just going to be us exploring it. Not really knowing what sort of experience we’re going to have is exhilarating and a little bit overwhelming at the same time.”
According to the Nobody’s River website, a fully interactive web-based atlas will be produced from the images, stories, and data collected, and will be used as a tool for environmental education and conservation. A mouse click along the length of the watershed will take the user to that area.
mongolia or bust
Though the four kayakers hope to paddle as much of the river as possible, bypassing tense border regions by train and bus, their original plan might be altered as a result of a tragedy befalling Dennis’ longtime partner, Zach Orman.
Orman died in a paragliding accident in early April, so the upcoming journey will be taken with heavy hearts. From the Nobody’s River blog entry of April 24:
We have also spent long hours asking ourselves and each other how to move forward. There are no simple answers. There is no obvious path ahead. And though some things have become more clear, others remain faint forms on a distant horizon.

What we do know is that we are moving forward, slowly, and with shaky legs and beat-up hearts, but forward. It will not be the same journey we had planned. It cannot be, because life has changed and in the process so have we.

Our team of four will now leave June 1 and travel through Mongolia by kayak. Then we will let our hearts lead us from there. We may take the train and ferry to the ocean in Russia or we may still paddle the last 900 kilometers to the ocean. We trust that the path will appear as we move forward if we just keep listening.

We will be paddling much less of the total river length and will be abroad for a shorter period of time now, but we still plan to travel from the headwaters to the ocean, to capture the place in images, film, and scientific data, and to bring those stories home to all of you. We will still write blogs, and our sponsors will still get gorgeous photos and all of the things they were promised. But the story will certainly be more raw, more real, and more deeply human.
Through it all, we suspect the expedition will be well worth following. Check out Nobody’s River on Facebook or follow its blog. A video describing the expedition is right this way….

Photos and map courtesy of Nobody’s River


Tuesday, May 21, 2013

An exclusive club - Second Deaf Mariner to Solo Circumnavigate the World



South Africa: Charl de Villiers made headlines four years ago when he became the first deaf sailor to circumnavigate the world single-handedly.

He made his his epic 2004 voyage in his 11.2m Tartan yacht 'Island Times', which he bought in September 2000, and departed on his amazing journey from Palacios, in Texas.

Seven months and 13 days later, he was welcomed back by 300 people, including family members, at the same spot.

His inspirational voyage took him through the Panama Canal and across the Pacific and Indian oceans. He overcame equipment failure, adverse weather conditions, a near collision with a freighter, and even fell victim to a robbery on his yacht.

Now the 'silent voyager', who has been based in Texas for the past 17 years, is back in the country of his birth, South Africa, visiting his family in East London.

'It feels good to be back in South Africa, it’s the most beautiful country in the world,' said De Villiers, who has been deaf since the age of seven, but lip-reads English and Afrikaans.

His father Johan jokingly told the Dispatch that De Villiers only visited his family when he was injured – the last time was after he had broken his leg playing rugby.

This time around, De Villiers injured his arm while repairing a boat in Texas. Doctors told him it would take six weeks for his arm to heal so, as he was unable to repair boats or sail with one arm, he took the opportunity for a trip home.

'Once I’m in Texas I never know when I’ll see my family again,' he said with a chuckle.

A father of two, his daughter is married to a rancher, and his son is in his final year at university.

He became deaf after suffering an allergic reaction to medication he was given for severe burns.

Today he repairs and delivers both power and sail boats for a living and his new career has led to him sailing the great American lakes of Erie, Huron and Michigan. He has even sailed the Mississippi River.

'Going down the Mississippi River, I felt like Mark Twain,' he said.

Between boat work, De Villiers has managed to start a rugby club with South African expatriates and gives motivational speeches about his life and sailing experiences.

Inspiring stuff for someone who has lost their hearing.....

- - - snip - - - 

Gerry Hughe

According to boatbuilder Beneteau, 1,525 people have scaled Mt. Everest, 560 have been to outer space, yet only 300 people have completed solo circumnavigations. Those are fairly exclusives clubs. Perhaps the most exclusive club of all is one that includes but TWO sailors: Gerry Hughes, a Scottish school teacher is the SECOND deaf sailor to have sailed around the world solo.
Hughes started his circumnavigation on September 1, 2012 from the Firth of Clyde on Scotland's west coast aboard his Beaneteau 42s7, Quest III. More than 32,000 miles later, and after he had doubled the world's five southernmost capes, he arrived home on May 8, 2013.  Hughes said he undertook his circumnavigation to fulfill a lifelong ambition and, more important, to inspire young deaf people to overcome the obstacles they must face in life.


Thursday, May 16, 2013

GLOBALSTAR subsidiary SPOT LLC brings satphone to the outdoor recreation market

GLOBALSTAR subsidiary SPOT LLC brings satphone to the outdoor recreation market 

Portable, easy-to-use and affordable, the new SPOT Global Phone keeps users connected to family, friends and emergency services when their adventures take them off the grid 

Covington, LA (May 14, 2013) SPOT LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Globalstar, Inc. and leader in satellite messaging and emergency notification technologies, today announced the new SPOT Global Phone, a portable, easy-to-use and data-enabled satellite phone. Hunters, hikers, boaters, off-road travelers and all outdoor enthusiasts will find that SPOT Global Phone provides industry-leading, crystal clear voice quality where cell service won’t work. 

“Outdoor recreationists have come to appreciate SPOT as a brand that keeps them safe as they explore new ways of getting off the grid,” said Jay Monroe, Chief Executive Officer, Globalstar. “As the first satellite phone available in major retail outlets such as West Marine, REI and Cabela’s, SPOT Global Phone will not only provide a lifeline during these adventures, but an opportunity to connect with impeccably clear voice quality on a satellite network that is light years ahead of the competition.”

SPOT Global Phone Features
  • Compact size: 5.3"H x 2.2" W x 1.5"D
  • Lightweight: 7 ounces
  • Satellite-based technology
  • Superior voice clarity with no noticeable delay or echo
  • Backlit color display optimized for outdoor daytime viewing
  • Long-life battery: 4 hours talk time, 36 hours standby
  • Data capable enabling email and file transfers
  • Quick online activation, ten-digit dialing with local phone numbers
  • Ergonomic design
  • Lighted keypad
  • 911 emergency service access
SPOT Global Phone ensures users can connect with family, friends and businesses even when their adventures take them out of cell coverage. With patented Qualcomm-based CDMA technology providing crystal-clear voice quality from anywhere within the service footprint, SPOT Global Phone users experience superior performance. Critical communications happen in an instant, with no noticeable time delays on a network that transmits even a whisper. With the availability of Express Data on most data plans, guaranteed data speeds of 9.6Kbps provide up to four times the data speed of most other mobile satellite data services and enable emails, file transfers, and basic services to occur at high-speed.

Pricing and Availability
The SPOT Global Phone is the only satellite phone to be offered in major retail outlets and is also available online and through a dealer network, expanding the reach of the mobile satellite service (MSS) market beyond oil fields and commercial fishing. The SPOT Global Phone retails at $499 plus a required subscription service that provides industry-leading voice quality starting at $24.99 monthly or as low as 25 cents per minute. For more information on where to buy the SPOT Global Phone and other SPOT products and service offerings, visit FindMeSPOT.com or call 866-651-SPOT.

About SPOT LLC
SPOT LLC, a subsidiary of Globalstar, Inc., provides affordable satellite communication and tracking devices for recreational use. SPOT voice devices use the Globalstar network to transmit two-way communication.  SPOT messaging devices use both the GPS satellite network and the Globalstar network to transmit text messages and GPS coordinates. Since 2007, SPOT has provided peace of mind by allowing customers to remain in contact completely independent of cellular coverage, having initiated over 2,300 rescues worldwide. For more information, visit FindMeSPOT.com.

Note that all SPOT products described in this press release are the products of SPOT LLC, which is not affiliated in any manner with Spot Image of Toulouse, France or Spot Image Corporation of Chantilly, Virginia. SPOT Connect is a trademark of Spot LLC. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.



GLOBALSTAR subsidiary SPOT LLC brings satphone to the outdoor recreation market

GLOBALSTAR subsidiary SPOT LLC brings satphone to the outdoor recreation market 

Portable, easy-to-use and affordable, the new SPOT Global Phone keeps users connected to family, friends and emergency services when their adventures take them off the grid 

Covington, LA (May 14, 2013) SPOT LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Globalstar, Inc. and leader in satellite messaging and emergency notification technologies, today announced the new SPOT Global Phone, a portable, easy-to-use and data-enabled satellite phone. Hunters, hikers, boaters, off-road travelers and all outdoor enthusiasts will find that SPOT Global Phone provides industry-leading, crystal clear voice quality where cell service won’t work. 

“Outdoor recreationists have come to appreciate SPOT as a brand that keeps them safe as they explore new ways of getting off the grid,” said Jay Monroe, Chief Executive Officer, Globalstar. “As the first satellite phone available in major retail outlets such as West Marine, REI and Cabela’s, SPOT Global Phone will not only provide a lifeline during these adventures, but an opportunity to connect with impeccably clear voice quality on a satellite network that is light years ahead of the competition.”

SPOT Global Phone Features
  • Compact size: 5.3"H x 2.2" W x 1.5"D
  • Lightweight: 7 ounces
  • Satellite-based technology
  • Superior voice clarity with no noticeable delay or echo
  • Backlit color display optimized for outdoor daytime viewing
  • Long-life battery: 4 hours talk time, 36 hours standby
  • Data capable enabling email and file transfers
  • Quick online activation, ten-digit dialing with local phone numbers
  • Ergonomic design
  • Lighted keypad
  • 911 emergency service access
SPOT Global Phone ensures users can connect with family, friends and businesses even when their adventures take them out of cell coverage. With patented Qualcomm-based CDMA technology providing crystal-clear voice quality from anywhere within the service footprint, SPOT Global Phone users experience superior performance. Critical communications happen in an instant, with no noticeable time delays on a network that transmits even a whisper. With the availability of Express Data on most data plans, guaranteed data speeds of 9.6Kbps provide up to four times the data speed of most other mobile satellite data services and enable emails, file transfers, and basic services to occur at high-speed.

Pricing and Availability
The SPOT Global Phone is the only satellite phone to be offered in major retail outlets and is also available online and through a dealer network, expanding the reach of the mobile satellite service (MSS) market beyond oil fields and commercial fishing. The SPOT Global Phone retails at $499 plus a required subscription service that provides industry-leading voice quality starting at $24.99 monthly or as low as 25 cents per minute. For more information on where to buy the SPOT Global Phone and other SPOT products and service offerings, visit FindMeSPOT.com or call 866-651-SPOT.

About SPOT LLC
SPOT LLC, a subsidiary of Globalstar, Inc., provides affordable satellite communication and tracking devices for recreational use. SPOT voice devices use the Globalstar network to transmit two-way communication.  SPOT messaging devices use both the GPS satellite network and the Globalstar network to transmit text messages and GPS coordinates. Since 2007, SPOT has provided peace of mind by allowing customers to remain in contact completely independent of cellular coverage, having initiated over 2,300 rescues worldwide. For more information, visit FindMeSPOT.com.

Note that all SPOT products described in this press release are the products of SPOT LLC, which is not affiliated in any manner with Spot Image of Toulouse, France or Spot Image Corporation of Chantilly, Virginia. SPOT Connect is a trademark of Spot LLC. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.



GLOBALSTAR subsidiary SPOT LLC brings satphone to the outdoor recreation market

GLOBALSTAR subsidiary SPOT LLC brings satphone to the outdoor recreation market 

Portable, easy-to-use and affordable, the new SPOT Global Phone keeps users connected to family, friends and emergency services when their adventures take them off the grid 

Covington, LA (May 14, 2013) SPOT LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Globalstar, Inc. and leader in satellite messaging and emergency notification technologies, today announced the new SPOT Global Phone, a portable, easy-to-use and data-enabled satellite phone. Hunters, hikers, boaters, off-road travelers and all outdoor enthusiasts will find that SPOT Global Phone provides industry-leading, crystal clear voice quality where cell service won’t work. 

“Outdoor recreationists have come to appreciate SPOT as a brand that keeps them safe as they explore new ways of getting off the grid,” said Jay Monroe, Chief Executive Officer, Globalstar. “As the first satellite phone available in major retail outlets such as West Marine, REI and Cabela’s, SPOT Global Phone will not only provide a lifeline during these adventures, but an opportunity to connect with impeccably clear voice quality on a satellite network that is light years ahead of the competition.”

SPOT Global Phone Features
  • Compact size: 5.3"H x 2.2" W x 1.5"D
  • Lightweight: 7 ounces
  • Satellite-based technology
  • Superior voice clarity with no noticeable delay or echo
  • Backlit color display optimized for outdoor daytime viewing
  • Long-life battery: 4 hours talk time, 36 hours standby
  • Data capable enabling email and file transfers
  • Quick online activation, ten-digit dialing with local phone numbers
  • Ergonomic design
  • Lighted keypad
  • 911 emergency service access
SPOT Global Phone ensures users can connect with family, friends and businesses even when their adventures take them out of cell coverage. With patented Qualcomm-based CDMA technology providing crystal-clear voice quality from anywhere within the service footprint, SPOT Global Phone users experience superior performance. Critical communications happen in an instant, with no noticeable time delays on a network that transmits even a whisper. With the availability of Express Data on most data plans, guaranteed data speeds of 9.6Kbps provide up to four times the data speed of most other mobile satellite data services and enable emails, file transfers, and basic services to occur at high-speed.

Pricing and Availability
The SPOT Global Phone is the only satellite phone to be offered in major retail outlets and is also available online and through a dealer network, expanding the reach of the mobile satellite service (MSS) market beyond oil fields and commercial fishing. The SPOT Global Phone retails at $499 plus a required subscription service that provides industry-leading voice quality starting at $24.99 monthly or as low as 25 cents per minute. For more information on where to buy the SPOT Global Phone and other SPOT products and service offerings, visit FindMeSPOT.com or call 866-651-SPOT.

About SPOT LLC
SPOT LLC, a subsidiary of Globalstar, Inc., provides affordable satellite communication and tracking devices for recreational use. SPOT voice devices use the Globalstar network to transmit two-way communication.  SPOT messaging devices use both the GPS satellite network and the Globalstar network to transmit text messages and GPS coordinates. Since 2007, SPOT has provided peace of mind by allowing customers to remain in contact completely independent of cellular coverage, having initiated over 2,300 rescues worldwide. For more information, visit FindMeSPOT.com.

Note that all SPOT products described in this press release are the products of SPOT LLC, which is not affiliated in any manner with Spot Image of Toulouse, France or Spot Image Corporation of Chantilly, Virginia. SPOT Connect is a trademark of Spot LLC. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.



GLOBALSTAR subsidiary SPOT LLC brings satphone to the outdoor recreation market

GLOBALSTAR subsidiary SPOT LLC brings satphone to the outdoor recreation market 

Portable, easy-to-use and affordable, the new SPOT Global Phone keeps users connected to family, friends and emergency services when their adventures take them off the grid 

Covington, LA (May 14, 2013) SPOT LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Globalstar, Inc. and leader in satellite messaging and emergency notification technologies, today announced the new SPOT Global Phone, a portable, easy-to-use and data-enabled satellite phone. Hunters, hikers, boaters, off-road travelers and all outdoor enthusiasts will find that SPOT Global Phone provides industry-leading, crystal clear voice quality where cell service won’t work. 

“Outdoor recreationists have come to appreciate SPOT as a brand that keeps them safe as they explore new ways of getting off the grid,” said Jay Monroe, Chief Executive Officer, Globalstar. “As the first satellite phone available in major retail outlets such as West Marine, REI and Cabela’s, SPOT Global Phone will not only provide a lifeline during these adventures, but an opportunity to connect with impeccably clear voice quality on a satellite network that is light years ahead of the competition.”

SPOT Global Phone Features
  • Compact size: 5.3"H x 2.2" W x 1.5"D
  • Lightweight: 7 ounces
  • Satellite-based technology
  • Superior voice clarity with no noticeable delay or echo
  • Backlit color display optimized for outdoor daytime viewing
  • Long-life battery: 4 hours talk time, 36 hours standby
  • Data capable enabling email and file transfers
  • Quick online activation, ten-digit dialing with local phone numbers
  • Ergonomic design
  • Lighted keypad
  • 911 emergency service access
SPOT Global Phone ensures users can connect with family, friends and businesses even when their adventures take them out of cell coverage. With patented Qualcomm-based CDMA technology providing crystal-clear voice quality from anywhere within the service footprint, SPOT Global Phone users experience superior performance. Critical communications happen in an instant, with no noticeable time delays on a network that transmits even a whisper. With the availability of Express Data on most data plans, guaranteed data speeds of 9.6Kbps provide up to four times the data speed of most other mobile satellite data services and enable emails, file transfers, and basic services to occur at high-speed.

Pricing and Availability
The SPOT Global Phone is the only satellite phone to be offered in major retail outlets and is also available online and through a dealer network, expanding the reach of the mobile satellite service (MSS) market beyond oil fields and commercial fishing. The SPOT Global Phone retails at $499 plus a required subscription service that provides industry-leading voice quality starting at $24.99 monthly or as low as 25 cents per minute. For more information on where to buy the SPOT Global Phone and other SPOT products and service offerings, visit FindMeSPOT.com or call 866-651-SPOT.

About SPOT LLC
SPOT LLC, a subsidiary of Globalstar, Inc., provides affordable satellite communication and tracking devices for recreational use. SPOT voice devices use the Globalstar network to transmit two-way communication.  SPOT messaging devices use both the GPS satellite network and the Globalstar network to transmit text messages and GPS coordinates. Since 2007, SPOT has provided peace of mind by allowing customers to remain in contact completely independent of cellular coverage, having initiated over 2,300 rescues worldwide. For more information, visit FindMeSPOT.com.

Note that all SPOT products described in this press release are the products of SPOT LLC, which is not affiliated in any manner with Spot Image of Toulouse, France or Spot Image Corporation of Chantilly, Virginia. SPOT Connect is a trademark of Spot LLC. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.



GLOBALSTAR subsidiary SPOT LLC Brings satphone to the outdoor recreation market

GLOBALSTAR subsidiary SPOT LLC Brings satphone to the outdoor recreation market 

Portable, easy-to-use and affordable, the new SPOT Global Phone keeps users connected to family, friends and emergency services when their adventures take them off the grid 

Covington, LA (May 14, 2013) SPOT LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Globalstar, Inc. and leader in satellite messaging and emergency notification technologies, today announced the new SPOT Global Phone, a portable, easy-to-use and data-enabled satellite phone. Hunters, hikers, boaters, off-road travelers and all outdoor enthusiasts will find that SPOT Global Phone provides industry-leading, crystal clear voice quality where cell service won’t work. 

“Outdoor recreationists have come to appreciate SPOT as a brand that keeps them safe as they explore new ways of getting off the grid,” said Jay Monroe, Chief Executive Officer, Globalstar. “As the first satellite phone available in major retail outlets such as West Marine, REI and Cabela’s, SPOT Global Phone will not only provide a lifeline during these adventures, but an opportunity to connect with impeccably clear voice quality on a satellite network that is light years ahead of the competition.”

SPOT Global Phone Features
  • Compact size: 5.3"H x 2.2" W x 1.5"D
  • Lightweight: 7 ounces
  • Satellite-based technology
  • Superior voice clarity with no noticeable delay or echo
  • Backlit color display optimized for outdoor daytime viewing
  • Long-life battery: 4 hours talk time, 36 hours standby
  • Data capable enabling email and file transfers
  • Quick online activation, ten-digit dialing with local phone numbers
  • Ergonomic design
  • Lighted keypad
  • 911 emergency service access
SPOT Global Phone ensures users can connect with family, friends and businesses even when their adventures take them out of cell coverage. With patented Qualcomm-based CDMA technology providing crystal-clear voice quality from anywhere within the service footprint, SPOT Global Phone users experience superior performance. Critical communications happen in an instant, with no noticeable time delays on a network that transmits even a whisper. With the availability of Express Data on most data plans, guaranteed data speeds of 9.6Kbps provide up to four times the data speed of most other mobile satellite data services and enable emails, file transfers, and basic services to occur at high-speed.

Pricing and Availability
The SPOT Global Phone is the only satellite phone to be offered in major retail outlets and is also available online and through a dealer network, expanding the reach of the mobile satellite service (MSS) market beyond oil fields and commercial fishing. The SPOT Global Phone retails at $499 plus a required subscription service that provides industry-leading voice quality starting at $24.99 monthly or as low as 25 cents per minute. For more information on where to buy the SPOT Global Phone and other SPOT products and service offerings, visit FindMeSPOT.com or call 866-651-SPOT.

About SPOT LLC
SPOT LLC, a subsidiary of Globalstar, Inc., provides affordable satellite communication and tracking devices for recreational use. SPOT voice devices use the Globalstar network to transmit two-way communication.  SPOT messaging devices use both the GPS satellite network and the Globalstar network to transmit text messages and GPS coordinates. Since 2007, SPOT has provided peace of mind by allowing customers to remain in contact completely independent of cellular coverage, having initiated over 2,300 rescues worldwide. For more information, visit FindMeSPOT.com.

Note that all SPOT products described in this press release are the products of SPOT LLC, which is not affiliated in any manner with Spot Image of Toulouse, France or Spot Image Corporation of Chantilly, Virginia. SPOT Connect is a trademark of Spot LLC. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.



GLOBALSTAR subsidiary SPOT LLC Brings satphone to the outdoor recreation market

GLOBALSTAR subsidiary SPOT LLC Brings Affordable, Superior Voice Quality Satphone to the Outdoor Recreation Market 

Portable, easy-to-use and affordable, the new SPOT Global Phone keeps users connected to family, friends and emergency services when their adventures take them off the grid 

Covington, LA (May 14, 2013) SPOT LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Globalstar, Inc. and leader in satellite messaging and emergency notification technologies, today announced the new SPOT Global Phone, a portable, easy-to-use and data-enabled satellite phone. Hunters, hikers, boaters, off-road travelers and all outdoor enthusiasts will find that SPOT Global Phone provides industry-leading, crystal clear voice quality where cell service won’t work. 

“Outdoor recreationists have come to appreciate SPOT as a brand that keeps them safe as they explore new ways of getting off the grid,” said Jay Monroe, Chief Executive Officer, Globalstar. “As the first satellite phone available in major retail outlets such as West Marine, REI and Cabela’s, SPOT Global Phone will not only provide a lifeline during these adventures, but an opportunity to connect with impeccably clear voice quality on a satellite network that is light years ahead of the competition.”

SPOT Global Phone Features
  • Compact size: 5.3"H x 2.2" W x 1.5"D
  • Lightweight: 7 ounces
  • Satellite-based technology
  • Superior voice clarity with no noticeable delay or echo
  • Backlit color display optimized for outdoor daytime viewing
  • Long-life battery: 4 hours talk time, 36 hours standby
  • Data capable enabling email and file transfers
  • Quick online activation, ten-digit dialing with local phone numbers
  • Ergonomic design
  • Lighted keypad
  • 911 emergency service access
SPOT Global Phone ensures users can connect with family, friends and businesses even when their adventures take them out of cell coverage. With patented Qualcomm-based CDMA technology providing crystal-clear voice quality from anywhere within the service footprint, SPOT Global Phone users experience superior performance. Critical communications happen in an instant, with no noticeable time delays on a network that transmits even a whisper. With the availability of Express Data on most data plans, guaranteed data speeds of 9.6Kbps provide up to four times the data speed of most other mobile satellite data services and enable emails, file transfers, and basic services to occur at high-speed.

Pricing and Availability
The SPOT Global Phone is the only satellite phone to be offered in major retail outlets and is also available online and through a dealer network, expanding the reach of the mobile satellite service (MSS) market beyond oil fields and commercial fishing. The SPOT Global Phone retails at $499 plus a required subscription service that provides industry-leading voice quality starting at $24.99 monthly or as low as 25 cents per minute. For more information on where to buy the SPOT Global Phone and other SPOT products and service offerings, visit FindMeSPOT.com or call 866-651-SPOT.

About SPOT LLC
SPOT LLC, a subsidiary of Globalstar, Inc., provides affordable satellite communication and tracking devices for recreational use. SPOT voice devices use the Globalstar network to transmit two-way communication.  SPOT messaging devices use both the GPS satellite network and the Globalstar network to transmit text messages and GPS coordinates. Since 2007, SPOT has provided peace of mind by allowing customers to remain in contact completely independent of cellular coverage, having initiated over 2,300 rescues worldwide. For more information, visit FindMeSPOT.com.

Note that all SPOT products described in this press release are the products of SPOT LLC, which is not affiliated in any manner with Spot Image of Toulouse, France or Spot Image Corporation of Chantilly, Virginia. SPOT Connect is a trademark of Spot LLC. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.



GLOBALSTAR subsidiary SPOT LLC Brings Affordable, Superior Voice Quality Satphone to the Outdoor Recreation Market

GLOBALSTAR subsidiary SPOT LLC Brings Affordable, Superior Voice Quality Satphone to the Outdoor Recreation Market 

Portable, easy-to-use and affordable, the new SPOT Global Phone keeps users connected to family, friends and emergency services when their adventures take them off the grid 

Covington, LA (May 14, 2013) SPOT LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Globalstar, Inc. and leader in satellite messaging and emergency notification technologies, today announced the new SPOT Global Phone, a portable, easy-to-use and data-enabled satellite phone. Hunters, hikers, boaters, off-road travelers and all outdoor enthusiasts will find that SPOT Global Phone provides industry-leading, crystal clear voice quality where cell service won’t work. 

“Outdoor recreationists have come to appreciate SPOT as a brand that keeps them safe as they explore new ways of getting off the grid,” said Jay Monroe, Chief Executive Officer, Globalstar. “As the first satellite phone available in major retail outlets such as West Marine, REI and Cabela’s, SPOT Global Phone will not only provide a lifeline during these adventures, but an opportunity to connect with impeccably clear voice quality on a satellite network that is light years ahead of the competition.”

SPOT Global Phone Features
  • Compact size: 5.3"H x 2.2" W x 1.5"D
  • Lightweight: 7 ounces
  • Satellite-based technology
  • Superior voice clarity with no noticeable delay or echo
  • Backlit color display optimized for outdoor daytime viewing
  • Long-life battery: 4 hours talk time, 36 hours standby
  • Data capable enabling email and file transfers
  • Quick online activation, ten-digit dialing with local phone numbers
  • Ergonomic design
  • Lighted keypad
  • 911 emergency service access
SPOT Global Phone ensures users can connect with family, friends and businesses even when their adventures take them out of cell coverage. With patented Qualcomm-based CDMA technology providing crystal-clear voice quality from anywhere within the service footprint, SPOT Global Phone users experience superior performance. Critical communications happen in an instant, with no noticeable time delays on a network that transmits even a whisper. With the availability of Express Data on most data plans, guaranteed data speeds of 9.6Kbps provide up to four times the data speed of most other mobile satellite data services and enable emails, file transfers, and basic services to occur at high-speed.

Pricing and Availability
The SPOT Global Phone is the only satellite phone to be offered in major retail outlets and is also available online and through a dealer network, expanding the reach of the mobile satellite service (MSS) market beyond oil fields and commercial fishing. The SPOT Global Phone retails at $499 plus a required subscription service that provides industry-leading voice quality starting at $24.99 monthly or as low as 25 cents per minute. For more information on where to buy the SPOT Global Phone and other SPOT products and service offerings, visit FindMeSPOT.com or call 866-651-SPOT.

About SPOT LLC
SPOT LLC, a subsidiary of Globalstar, Inc., provides affordable satellite communication and tracking devices for recreational use. SPOT voice devices use the Globalstar network to transmit two-way communication.  SPOT messaging devices use both the GPS satellite network and the Globalstar network to transmit text messages and GPS coordinates. Since 2007, SPOT has provided peace of mind by allowing customers to remain in contact completely independent of cellular coverage, having initiated over 2,300 rescues worldwide. For more information, visit FindMeSPOT.com.

Note that all SPOT products described in this press release are the products of SPOT LLC, which is not affiliated in any manner with Spot Image of Toulouse, France or Spot Image Corporation of Chantilly, Virginia. SPOT Connect is a trademark of Spot LLC. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.



GLOBALSTAR subsidiary SPOT LLC Brings Affordable, Superior Voice Quality Satphone to the Outdoor Recreation Market

GLOBALSTAR subsidiary SPOT LLC Brings Affordable, Superior Voice Quality Satphone to the Outdoor Recreation Market 

Portable, easy-to-use and affordable, the new SPOT Global Phone keeps users connected to family, friends and emergency services when their adventures take them off the grid 

Covington, LA (May 14, 2013) SPOT LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Globalstar, Inc. and leader in satellite messaging and emergency notification technologies, today announced the new SPOT Global Phone, a portable, easy-to-use and data-enabled satellite phone. Hunters, hikers, boaters, off-road travelers and all outdoor enthusiasts will find that SPOT Global Phone provides industry-leading, crystal clear voice quality where cell service won’t work. 

“Outdoor recreationists have come to appreciate SPOT as a brand that keeps them safe as they explore new ways of getting off the grid,” said Jay Monroe, Chief Executive Officer, Globalstar. “As the first satellite phone available in major retail outlets such as West Marine, REI and Cabela’s, SPOT Global Phone will not only provide a lifeline during these adventures, but an opportunity to connect with impeccably clear voice quality on a satellite network that is light years ahead of the competition.”

SPOT Global Phone Features
  • Compact size: 5.3"H x 2.2" W x 1.5"D
  • Lightweight: 7 ounces
  • Satellite-based technology
  • Superior voice clarity with no noticeable delay or echo
  • Backlit color display optimized for outdoor daytime viewing
  • Long-life battery: 4 hours talk time, 36 hours standby
  • Data capable enabling email and file transfers
  • Quick online activation, ten-digit dialing with local phone numbers
  • Ergonomic design
  • Lighted keypad
  • 911 emergency service access
SPOT Global Phone ensures users can connect with family, friends and businesses even when their adventures take them out of cell coverage. With patented Qualcomm-based CDMA technology providing crystal-clear voice quality from anywhere within the service footprint, SPOT Global Phone users experience superior performance. Critical communications happen in an instant, with no noticeable time delays on a network that transmits even a whisper. With the availability of Express Data on most data plans, guaranteed data speeds of 9.6Kbps provide up to four times the data speed of most other mobile satellite data services and enable emails, file transfers, and basic services to occur at high-speed.

Pricing and Availability
The SPOT Global Phone is the only satellite phone to be offered in major retail outlets and is also available online and through a dealer network, expanding the reach of the mobile satellite service (MSS) market beyond oil fields and commercial fishing. The SPOT Global Phone retails at $499 plus a required subscription service that provides industry-leading voice quality starting at $24.99 monthly or as low as 25 cents per minute. For more information on where to buy the SPOT Global Phone and other SPOT products and service offerings, visit FindMeSPOT.com or call 866-651-SPOT.

About SPOT LLC
SPOT LLC, a subsidiary of Globalstar, Inc., provides affordable satellite communication and tracking devices for recreational use. SPOT voice devices use the Globalstar network to transmit two-way communication.  SPOT messaging devices use both the GPS satellite network and the Globalstar network to transmit text messages and GPS coordinates. Since 2007, SPOT has provided peace of mind by allowing customers to remain in contact completely independent of cellular coverage, having initiated over 2,300 rescues worldwide. For more information, visit FindMeSPOT.com.

Note that all SPOT products described in this press release are the products of SPOT LLC, which is not affiliated in any manner with Spot Image of Toulouse, France or Spot Image Corporation of Chantilly, Virginia. SPOT Connect is a trademark of Spot LLC. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.