Document and Entity Information (USD $)
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12 Months Ended | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2011
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Jun. 30, 2011
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Mar. 02, 2012
Voting Common Stock
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Mar. 02, 2012
Nonvoting Common Stock
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Document Type | 10-K | |||
Amendment Flag | false | |||
Document Period End Date | Dec. 31, 2011 | |||
Document Fiscal Year Focus | 2011 | |||
Document Fiscal Period Focus | FY | |||
Trading Symbol | GSAT | |||
Entity Registrant Name | GLOBALSTAR, INC. | |||
Entity Central Index Key | 0001366868 | |||
Current Fiscal Year End Date | --12-31 | |||
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer | No | |||
Entity Current Reporting Status | Yes | |||
Entity Voluntary Filers | No | |||
Entity Filer Category | Accelerated Filer | |||
Entity Public Float | $ 130,700,000 | |||
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding | 297,873,480 | 78,427,524 |
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- Definition
If the value is true, then the document as an amendment to previously-filed/accepted document. No definition available.
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- Definition
End date of current fiscal year in the format --MM-DD. No definition available.
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- Definition
This is focus fiscal period of the document report. For a first quarter 2006 quarterly report, which may also provide financial information from prior periods, the first fiscal quarter should be given as the fiscal period focus. Values: FY, Q1, Q2, Q3, Q4, H1, H2, M9, T1, T2, T3, M8, CY. No definition available.
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- Definition
This is focus fiscal year of the document report in CCYY format. For a 2006 annual report, which may also provide financial information from prior periods, fiscal 2006 should be given as the fiscal year focus. Example: 2006. No definition available.
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- Definition
The end date of the period reflected on the cover page if a periodic report. For all other reports and registration statements containing historical data, it is the date up through which that historical data is presented. If there is no historical data in the report, use the filing date. The format of the date is CCYY-MM-DD. No definition available.
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- Definition
The type of document being provided (such as 10-K, 10-Q, N-1A, etc). The document type is limited to the same value as the supporting SEC submission type, minus any "/A" suffix. The acceptable values are as follows: S-1, S-3, S-4, S-11, F-1, F-3, F-4, F-9, F-10, 6-K, 8-K, 10, 10-K, 10-Q, 20-F, 40-F, N-1A, 485BPOS, 497, NCSR, N-CSR, N-CSRS, N-Q, 10-KT, 10-QT, 20-FT, POS AM and Other. No definition available.
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- Definition
A unique 10-digit SEC-issued value to identify entities that have filed disclosures with the SEC. It is commonly abbreviated as CIK. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Indicate number of shares outstanding of each of registrant's classes of common stock, as of latest practicable date. Where multiple classes exist define each class by adding class of stock items such as Common Class A [Member], Common Class B [Member] onto the Instrument [Domain] of the Entity Listings, Instrument No definition available.
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- Definition
Indicate "Yes" or "No" whether registrants (1) have filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that registrants were required to file such reports), and (2) have been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. This information should be based on the registrant's current or most recent filing containing the related disclosure. No definition available.
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- Definition
Indicate whether the registrant is one of the following: (1) Large Accelerated Filer, (2) Accelerated Filer, (3) Non-accelerated Filer, or (4) Smaller Reporting Company. Definitions of these categories are stated in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. This information should be based on the registrant's current or most recent filing containing the related disclosure. No definition available.
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- Definition
State aggregate market value of voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates computed by reference to price at which the common equity was last sold, or average bid and asked price of such common equity, as of the last business day of registrant's most recently completed second fiscal quarter. The public float should be reported on the cover page of the registrants form 10K. No definition available.
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- Definition
The exact name of the entity filing the report as specified in its charter, which is required by forms filed with the SEC. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Indicate "Yes" or "No" if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. No definition available.
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- Definition
Indicate "Yes" or "No" if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Is used on Form Type: 10-K, 10-Q, 8-K, 20-F, 6-K, 10-K/A, 10-Q/A, 20-F/A, 6-K/A, N-CSR, N-Q, N-1A. No definition available.
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- Definition
Trading symbol of an instrument as listed on an exchange. No definition available.
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- Definition
Sum of the carrying amounts of all intangible assets, excluding goodwill, as of the balance sheet date, net of accumulated amortization and impairment charges. Also includes Aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of other noncurrent assets not separately disclosed in the balance sheet due to materiality considerations. No definition available.
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- Definition
Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of liabilities incurred (and for which invoices have typically been received) and payable to vendors for goods and services received that are used in an entity's business. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Amount due from customers or clients, within one year of the balance sheet date (or the normal operating cycle, whichever is longer), for goods or services (including trade receivables) that have been delivered or sold in the normal course of business, reduced to the estimated net realizable fair value by an allowance established by the entity of the amount it deems uncertain of collection. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of obligations incurred and payable, pertaining to costs that are statutory in nature, are incurred on contractual obligations, or accumulate over time and for which invoices have not yet been received or will not be rendered. Examples include taxes, interest, rent and utilities. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Accumulated change in equity from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources, net of tax effect, at period end. Excludes Net Income (Loss), and accumulated changes in equity from transactions resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners. Includes foreign currency translation items, certain pension adjustments, unrealized gains and losses on certain investments in debt and equity securities, other than temporary impairment (OTTI) losses related to factors other than credit losses on available-for-sale and held-to-maturity debt securities that an entity does not intend to sell and it is not more likely than not that the entity will be required to sell before recovery of the amortized cost basis, as well as changes in the fair value of derivatives related to the effective portion of a designated cash flow hedge. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Excess of issue price over par or stated value of the entity's capital stock and amounts received from other transactions involving the entity's stock or stockholders. Includes adjustments to additional paid in capital. Some examples of such adjustments include recording the issuance of debt with a beneficial conversion feature and certain tax consequences of equity instruments awarded to employees. Use this element for the aggregate amount of additional paid-in capital associated with common and preferred stock. For additional paid-in capital associated with only common stock, use the element additional paid in capital, common stock. For additional paid-in capital associated with only preferred stock, use the element additional paid in capital, preferred stock. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all assets that are recognized. Assets are probable future economic benefits obtained or controlled by an entity as a result of past transactions or events. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all assets that are expected to be realized in cash, sold, or consumed within one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Assets are probable future economic benefits obtained or controlled by an entity as a result of past transactions or events. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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- Definition
Includes currency on hand as well as demand deposits with banks or financial institutions. It also includes other kinds of accounts that have the general characteristics of demand deposits in that the Entity may deposit additional funds at any time and also effectively may withdraw funds at any time without prior notice or penalty. Cash equivalents, excluding items classified as marketable securities, include short-term, highly liquid investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash, and so near their maturity that they present minimal risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Generally, only investments with original maturities of three months or less qualify under that definition. Original maturity means original maturity to the entity holding the investment. For example, both a three-month US Treasury bill and a three-year Treasury note purchased three months from maturity qualify as cash equivalents. However, a Treasury note purchased three years ago does not become a cash equivalent when its remaining maturity is three months. Compensating balance arrangements that do not legally restrict the withdrawal or usage of cash amounts may be reported as Cash and Cash Equivalents, while legally restricted deposits held as compensating balances against borrowing arrangements, contracts entered into with others, or company statements of intention with regard to particular deposits are not generally reported as cash and cash equivalents. Includes cash and cash equivalents associated with the entity's continuing operations. Excludes cash and cash equivalents associated with the disposal group (and discontinued operation). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Represents the caption on the face of the balance sheet to indicate that the entity has entered into (1) purchase or supply arrangements that will require expending a portion of its resources to meet the terms thereof, and (2) is exposed to potential losses or, less frequently, gains, arising from (a) possible claims against a company's resources due to future performance under contract terms, and (b) possible losses or likely gains from uncertainties that will ultimately be resolved when one or more future events that are deemed likely to occur do occur or fail to occur. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Aggregate par or stated value of issued nonredeemable common stock (or common stock redeemable solely at the option of the issuer). This item includes treasury stock repurchased by the entity. Note: elements for number of nonredeemable common shares, par value and other disclosure concepts are in another section within stockholders' equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Net amount of long-term deferred finance costs capitalized at the end of the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
The carrying amount of consideration received or receivable as of the balance sheet date on potential earnings that were not recognized as revenue in conformity with GAAP, and which are expected to be recognized as such within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer, including sales, license fees, and royalties, but excluding interest income. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
The noncurrent portion of deferred revenue amount as of balance sheet date. Deferred revenue is a liability related to a revenue producing activity for which revenue has not yet been recognized, and is not expected to be recognized in the next twelve months. Generally, an entity records deferred revenue when it receives consideration from a customer before achieving certain criteria that must be met for revenue to be recognized in conformity with GAAP. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Fair values as of the balance sheet date of all liabilities resulting from contracts that meet the criteria of being accounted for as derivative instruments, and which are expected to be extinguished or otherwise disposed of after one year or beyond the normal operating cycle, if longer, net of the effects of master netting arrangements. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Amount of payable due to an entity that is affiliated with the reporting entity by means of direct or indirect ownership. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Carrying amount (lower of cost or market) as of the balance sheet date of inventories less all valuation and other allowances. Excludes noncurrent inventory balances (expected to remain on hand past one year or one operating cycle, if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Inventories not expected to be converted to cash, sold or exchanged within the normal operating cycle. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Total of all Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity items (or Partners' Capital, as applicable), including the portion of equity attributable to noncontrolling interests, if any. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Total obligations incurred as part of normal operations that are expected to be paid during the following twelve months or within one business cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Total obligations incurred as part of normal operations that is expected to be repaid beyond the following twelve months or one business cycle. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Sum of the carrying values as of the balance sheet date of all long-term debt, which is debt initially having maturities due after one year from the balance sheet date or beyond the operating cycle, if longer, but excluding the portions thereof scheduled to be repaid within one year (current maturities) or the normal operating cycle, if longer, and after deducting unamortized discount or premiums, if any. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of noncurrent obligations not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Noncurrent liabilities are expected to be paid after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
This represents the noncurrent liability for underfunded plans recognized in the balance sheet that is associated with the defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement defined benefit plans. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Aggregate par or stated value of issued nonredeemable preferred stock (or preferred stock redeemable solely at the option of the issuer). This item includes treasury stock repurchased by the entity. Note: elements for number of nonredeemable preferred shares, par value and other disclosure concepts are in another section within stockholders' equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
The total of the amounts paid in advance for capitalized costs that will be expensed with the passage of time or the occurrence of a triggering event, and will be charged against earnings within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer, and the aggregate carrying amount of current assets, as of the balance sheet date, not separately presented elsewhere in the balance sheet. Current assets are expected to be realized or consumed within one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Tangible assets that are held by an entity for use in the production or supply of goods and services, for rental to others, or for administrative purposes and that are expected to provide economic benefit for more than one year; net of accumulated depreciation. Examples include land, buildings, machinery and equipment, and other types of furniture and equipment including, but not limited to, office equipment, furniture and fixtures, and computer equipment and software. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalent items which are restricted as to withdrawal or usage. Restrictions may include legally restricted deposits held as compensating balances against short-term borrowing arrangements, contracts entered into with others, or entity statements of intention with regard to particular deposits; however, time deposits and short-term certificates of deposit are not generally included in legally restricted deposits. Excludes compensating balance arrangements that are not agreements which legally restrict the use of cash amounts shown on the balance sheet. For a classified balance sheet represents the current portion only (the noncurrent portion has a separate concept); there is a separate and distinct element for unclassified presentations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Cash and equivalents whose use in whole or in part is restricted for the long-term, generally by contractual agreements or regulatory requirements. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The cumulative amount of the reporting entity's undistributed earnings or deficit. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Total of all stockholders' equity (deficit) items, net of receivables from officers, directors, owners, and affiliates of the entity which are attributable to the parent. The amount of the economic entity's stockholders' equity attributable to the parent excludes the amount of stockholders' equity which is allocable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent (noncontrolling interest, minority interest). This excludes temporary equity and is sometimes called permanent equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) (USD $)
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified |
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
---|---|---|
Accounts receivable, allowance | $ 7,296 | $ 5,971 |
Accounts payable, contractor payables | $ 32,275 | $ 18,110 |
Preferred Stock
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||
Preferred Stock, par value | $ 0.0001 | $ 0.0001 |
Preferred Stock, shares authorized | 100,000,000 | 100,000,000 |
Preferred Stock, issued | ||
Preferred Stock, outstanding | ||
Series A Preferred Convertible Stock
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Preferred Stock, par value | $ 0.0001 | $ 0.0001 |
Preferred Stock, shares authorized | 1 | 1 |
Preferred Stock, issued | ||
Preferred Stock, outstanding | ||
Voting Common Stock
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Common Stock, par value | $ 0.0001 | $ 0.0001 |
Common Stock, shares authorized | 865,000,000 | 865,000,000 |
Common Stock, shares issued | 297,175,777 | 290,682,693 |
Common Stock, shares outstanding | 297,175,777 | 290,682,693 |
Nonvoting Common Stock
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Common Stock, par value | $ 0.0001 | $ 0.0001 |
Common Stock, shares authorized | 135,000,000 | 135,000,000 |
Common Stock, shares issued | 55,881,512 | 19,275,750 |
Common Stock, shares outstanding | 55,881,512 | 19,275,750 |
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
A valuation allowance for trade and other receivables due to an Entity within one year (or the normal operating cycle, whichever is longer) that are expected to be uncollectible. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Face amount or stated value of common stock per share; generally not indicative of the fair market value per share. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The maximum number of common shares permitted to be issued by an entity's charter and bylaws. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Total number of common shares of an entity that have been sold or granted to shareholders (includes common shares that were issued, repurchased and remain in the treasury). These shares represent capital invested by the firm's shareholders and owners, and may be all or only a portion of the number of shares authorized. Shares issued include shares outstanding and shares held in the treasury. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Total number of shares of common stock held by shareholders. May be all or portion of the number of common shares authorized. These shares represent the ownership interest of the common shareholders. Shares outstanding equals shares issued minus shares held in treasury and other adjustments, if any. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of obligations incurred and payable, pertaining to costs that are statutory in nature, are incurred on contractual obligations, or accumulate over time and for which invoices have not yet been received or will not be rendered and of liabilities not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Face amount or stated value per share of nonredeemable preferred stock (or preferred stock redeemable solely at the option of the issuer); generally not indicative of the fair market value per share. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The maximum number of nonredeemable preferred shares (or preferred stock redeemable solely at the option of the issuer) permitted to be issued by an entity's charter and bylaws. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Total number of nonredeemable preferred shares (or preferred stock redeemable solely at the option of the issuer) issued to shareholders (includes related preferred shares that were issued, repurchased, and remain in the treasury). May be all or portion of the number of preferred shares authorized. Excludes preferred shares that are classified as debt. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Aggregate share number for all nonredeemable preferred stock (or preferred stock redeemable solely at the option of the issuer) held by stockholders. Does not include preferred shares that have been repurchased. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Details
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Total costs related to goods produced and sold during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Total costs related to services rendered by an entity during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Total costs of sales and operating expenses for the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The aggregate net amount of depreciation, amortization, and accretion recognized during an accounting period. As a noncash item, the net amount is added back to net income when calculating cash provided by or used in operations using the indirect method. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The amount of net income (loss) for the period per each share of common stock or unit outstanding during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The amount of net income (loss) for the period available to each share of common stock or common unit outstanding during the reporting period and to each share or unit that would have been outstanding assuming the issuance of common shares or units for all dilutive potential common shares or units outstanding during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Aggregate net gain (loss) on all derivative instruments recognized in earnings during the period, before tax effects. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Sum of operating profit and nonoperating income or expense before Income or Loss from equity method investments, income taxes, extraordinary items, and noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The sum of the current income tax expense or benefit and the deferred income tax expense or benefit pertaining to continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The cost of borrowed funds accounted for as interest that was charged against earnings during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Charge to cost of goods sold that represents the reduction of the carrying amount of inventory, generally attributable to obsolescence or market conditions. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Income derived from investments in debt securities and on cash and cash equivalents the earnings of which reflect the time value of money or transactions in which the payments are for the use or forbearance of money. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The portion of profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, which is attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The aggregate amount of income or expense from ancillary business-related activities (that is to say, excluding major activities considered part of the normal operations of the business). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Details
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The net result for the period of deducting operating expenses from operating revenues. No definition available.
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The charge against earnings resulting from the write down of long lived assets other than goodwill due to the difference between the carrying value and lower fair value. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The net amount of other income and expense amounts, the components of which are not separately disclosed on the income statement, resulting from ancillary business-related activities (that is, excluding major activities considered part of the normal operations of the business) also known as other nonoperating income (expense) recognized for the period. Such amounts may include: (a) dividends, (b) interest on securities, (c) net gains or losses on securities, (d) unusual costs, (e) gains or losses on foreign exchange transactions, and (f) miscellaneous other income and expense items. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Aggregate revenue recognized during the period (derived from goods sold, services rendered, insurance premiums, or other activities that constitute an entity's earning process). For financial services companies, also includes investment and interest income, and sales and trading gains. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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- Definition
Aggregate revenue during the period from the sale of goods in the normal course of business, after deducting returns, allowances and discounts. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Aggregate revenue during the period from services rendered in the normal course of business, after deducting allowances and discounts. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The aggregate total costs related to selling a firm's product and services, as well as all other general and administrative expenses. Direct selling expenses (for example, credit, warranty, and advertising) are expenses that can be directly linked to the sale of specific products. Indirect selling expenses are expenses that cannot be directly linked to the sale of specific products, for example telephone expenses, Internet, and postal charges. General and administrative expenses include salaries of non-sales personnel, rent, utilities, communication, etc. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
The average number of shares or units issued and outstanding that are used in calculating diluted EPS or earnings per unit (EPU), determined based on the timing of issuance of shares or units in the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Number of [basic] shares or units, after adjustment for contingently issuable shares or units and other shares or units not deemed outstanding, determined by relating the portion of time within a reporting period that common shares or units have been outstanding to the total time in that period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE LOSS (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | ||
---|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
|
Net loss | $ (54,924) | $ (97,467) | $ (74,923) |
Other comprehensive income (loss): | |||
Defined benefit pension plan liability adjustment | (3,190) | (84) | 407 |
Net foreign currency translation adjustment | 358 | 1,534 | 4,179 |
Total comprehensive loss | $ (57,756) | $ (96,017) | $ (70,337) |
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The change in equity [net assets] of a business enterprise during a period from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources which are attributable to the reporting entity. It includes all changes in equity during a period except those resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners, but excludes any and all transactions which are directly or indirectly attributable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The portion of profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, which is attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The increase (decrease) in accumulated comprehensive income during the period related to pension and other postretirement benefit plans, after tax. While for technical reasons this element has no balance attribute, the default assumption is a credit balance consistent with its label. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Adjustment that results from the process of translating subsidiary financial statements and foreign equity investments into the reporting currency of the reporting entity, net of tax. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Warrant Issued and Beneficial conversion Feature No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The number of shares returned in connection with an own-share lending arrangement entered into by the entity, in contemplation of a convertible debt offering or other financing. No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Equity impact of the number of shares returned in connection with an own-share lending arrangement entered into by the entity, in contemplation of a convertible debt offering or other financing. No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Number of shares issued during the period as a result of the exercise of warrants. No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Value stock issued during the period as a result of the exercise of warrants. No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Represents increases or decreases in additional paid in capital not separately disclosed. No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Increase in additional paid in capital due to warrants issued during the period. Includes also the proceeds of debt securities issued with detachable stock purchase warrants that are allocable to the warrants. These warrants qualify for equity classification and provide the holder with a right to purchase stock from the entity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The portion of profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, which is attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
This element represents Other Comprehensive Income or Loss, Net of Tax, for the period. Includes deferred gains or losses on qualifying hedges, unrealized holding gains or losses on available-for-sale securities, minimum pension liability, and cumulative translation adjustment. While for technical reasons this element has no balance attribute, the default assumption is a credit balance consistent with its label. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Number of shares issued and outstanding as of the balance sheet date. No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Total of all stockholders' equity (deficit) items, net of receivables from officers, directors, owners, and affiliates of the entity which are attributable to the parent. The amount of the economic entity's stockholders' equity attributable to the parent excludes the amount of stockholders' equity which is allocable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent (noncontrolling interest, minority interest). This excludes temporary equity and is sometimes called permanent equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
This element represents movements included in the statement of changes in stockholders' equity which are not separately disclosed or provided for elsewhere in the taxonomy. No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
This element represents movements in the number of shares included in the statement of changes in stockholders' equity which are not separately disclosed or provided for elsewhere in the taxonomy. No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Number of shares of stock issued during the period pursuant to acquisitions. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Number of shares issued during the period as a result of the conversion of convertible securities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Number of shares issued during the period as a result of an employee stock purchase plan. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Number of new stock issued during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Number of shares (or other type of equity) issued during the period as a result of any equity-based compensation plan other than an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP), net of any shares forfeited. Shares issued could result from the issuance of restricted stock, the exercise of stock options, stock issued under employee stock purchase plans, and/or other employee benefit plans. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Value of stock issued pursuant to acquisitions during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The gross value of stock issued during the period upon the conversion of convertible securities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Aggregate change in value for stock issued during the period as a result of employee stock purchase plan. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Equity impact of the value of new stock issued during the period. Includes shares issued in an initial public offering or a secondary public offering. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Value of stock (or other type of equity) issued during the period as a result of any equity-based compensation plan other than an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP), net of stock value of such awards forfeited. Stock issued could result from the issuance of restricted stock, the exercise of stock options, stock issued under employee stock purchase plans, and/or other employee benefit plans. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Conversion Of Convertible Notes To Common Stock No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Conversion of notes to equity investment No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Debt Instrument Convertible Beneficial Conversion Feature Initial Fair Value No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The cash inflow associated with the amount received from holders exercising their stock options and warrants. No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Reclassification Of Derivative Liabilities To Additional Paid In Capital No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Issuance of warrants in exchange for debt (convertible notes). No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Warrants Issued for Financing Costs No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The component of interest expense comprised of the periodic charge against earnings over the life of the financing arrangement to which such costs relate. Alternate captions include Noncash Interest Expense. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The charge against earnings resulting from the aggregate write down of all assets from their carrying value to their fair value. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Includes currency on hand as well as demand deposits with banks or financial institutions. It also includes other kinds of accounts that have the general characteristics of demand deposits in that the Entity may deposit additional funds at any time and also effectively may withdraw funds at any time without prior notice or penalty. Cash equivalents, excluding items classified as marketable securities, include short-term, highly liquid investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash, and so near their maturity that they present minimal risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Generally, only investments with original maturities of three months or less qualify under that definition. Original maturity means original maturity to the entity holding the investment. For example, both a three-month US Treasury bill and a three-year Treasury note purchased three months from maturity qualify as cash equivalents. However, a Treasury note purchased three years ago does not become a cash equivalent when its remaining maturity is three months. Compensating balance arrangements that do not legally restrict the withdrawal or usage of cash amounts may be reported as Cash and Cash Equivalents, while legally restricted deposits held as compensating balances against borrowing arrangements, contracts entered into with others, or company statements of intention with regard to particular deposits are not generally reported as cash and cash equivalents. Includes cash and cash equivalents associated with the entity's continuing operations. Excludes cash and cash equivalents associated with the disposal group (and discontinued operation). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in cash and cash equivalents. While for technical reasons this element has no balance attribute, the default assumption is a debit balance consistent with its label. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Future cash outflow to pay for construction in progress expenditures that have occurred. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The amount of the original debt being converted in a noncash (or part noncash) transaction. "Part noncash" refers to that portion of the transaction not resulting in cash receipts or cash payments in the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The aggregate net amount of depreciation, amortization, and accretion recognized during an accounting period. As a noncash item, the net amount is added back to net income when calculating cash provided by or used in operations using the indirect method. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The effect of exchange rate changes on cash balances held in foreign currencies. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The aggregate unrealized foreign currency transaction gain (loss) (pretax) included in determining net income for the reporting period. Represents the aggregate of gains (losses) on transactions that are unsettled as of the balance sheet date, which is therefore an adjustment to reconcile income (loss) from continuing operations to net cash provided by or used in continuing operations. Excludes foreign currency transactions designated as hedges of net investment in a foreign entity and intercompany foreign currency transactions that are of a long-term nature, when the entities to the transaction are consolidated, combined, or accounted for by the equity method in the reporting entity's financial statements. For certain entities, primarily banks, that are dealers in foreign exchange, foreign currency transaction gains (losses) may be disclosed as dealer gains (losses). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Aggregate net gain (loss) on all derivative instruments recognized in earnings during the period, before tax effects. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
This item represents the entity's proportionate share for the period of the net income (loss) of its investee (such as unconsolidated subsidiaries and joint ventures) to which the equity method of accounting is applied. This item includes income or expense related to stock-based compensation based on the investor's grant of stock to employees of an equity method investee. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The amount of cash paid during the current period to foreign, federal, state, and local authorities as taxes on income. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in the aggregate amount of liabilities incurred (and for which invoices have typically been received) and payable to vendors for goods and services received that are used in an entity's business. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in amount due within one year (or one business cycle) from customers for the credit sale of goods and services. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in the aggregate amount of expenses incurred but not yet paid. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period, excluding the portion taken into income, in the liability reflecting revenue yet to be earned for which cash or other forms of consideration was received or recorded as a receivable. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The increase (decrease) in obligations owed to an entity that is controlling, under the control of, or within the same control group as the reporting entity by means of direct or indirect ownership. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in the aggregate value of all inventory held by the reporting entity, associated with underlying transactions that are classified as operating activities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in other assets used in operating activities not separately disclosed in the statement of cash flows. May include changes in other current assets, other noncurrent assets, or a combination of other current and noncurrent assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in other liabilities used in operating activities not separately disclosed in the statement of cash flows. May include changes in other current liabilities, other noncurrent liabilities, or a combination of other current and noncurrent liabilities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in the value of prepaid expenses and other assets not separately disclosed in the statement of cash flows, for example, deferred expenses, intangible assets,or income taxes. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The net cash inflow or outflow for the increase (decrease) associated with funds that are not available for withdrawal or use (such as funds held in escrow) and are associated with underlying transactions that are classified as investing activities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Total interest costs incurred during the period that are capitalized. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The amount of cash paid for interest during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The net cash inflow or outflow from financing activity for the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The net cash inflow or outflow from investing activity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The net cash from (used in) all of the entity's operating activities, including those of discontinued operations, of the reporting entity. Operating activities generally involve producing and delivering goods and providing services. Operating activity cash flows include transactions, adjustments, and changes in value that are not defined as investing or financing activities. While for technical reasons this element has no balance attribute, the default assumption is a debit balance consistent with its label. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The portion of profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, which is attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The value of notes retired (or transferred to another entity) in noncash investing or financing transactions. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Other income (expense) included in net income that results in no cash inflows or outflows in the period. Includes noncash adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to cash provided by (used in) operating activities that are not separately disclosed. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The cash outflow from construction costs to date on capital projects that have not been completed and assets being constructed that are not ready to be placed into service. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The cash outflow for derivative instruments during the period, which are classified as financing activities, excluding those designated as hedging instruments. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The cash outflow paid to third parties in connection with debt origination, which will be amortized over the remaining maturity period of the associated long-term debt. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The cash outflow for loan and debt issuance costs. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The cash outflow associated with the purchase of or advances to an equity method investments, which are investments in joint ventures and entities in which the entity has an equity ownership interest normally of 20 to 50 percent and exercises significant influence. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The cash outflow associated with the acquisition of long-lived, physical assets that are used in the normal conduct of business to produce goods and services and not intended for resale; includes cash outflows to pay for construction of self-constructed assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The cash inflow from an entity that is affiliated with the entity by means of direct or indirect ownership. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The cash inflow from the issuance of a long-term debt instrument which can be exchanged for a specified amount of another security, typically the entity's common stock, at the option of the issuer or the holder. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The cash inflow from the additional capital contribution to the entity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The cash inflow from a contractual arrangement with the lender, including letter of credit, standby letter of credit and revolving credit arrangements, under which borrowings can be made up to a specific amount at any point in time with either short term or long term maturity that is collateralized (backed by pledge, mortgage or other lien in the entity's assets). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The cash inflow from other borrowing not otherwise defined in the taxonomy. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The net cash inflow or outflow from other financing activities. This element is used when there is not a more specific and appropriate element in the taxonomy. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The cash inflow from a borrowing having initial term of repayment within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Amount of the current period expense charged against operations, the offset which is generally to the allowance for doubtful accounts for the purpose of reducing receivables, including notes receivable, to an amount that approximates their net realizable value (the amount expected to be collected). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The aggregate amount of noncash, equity-based employee remuneration. This may include the value of stock or unit options, amortization of restricted stock or units, and adjustment for officers' compensation. As noncash, this element is an add back when calculating net cash generated by operating activities using the indirect method. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The fair value of stock issued in noncash financing activities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
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12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Dec. 31, 2011
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SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES | 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Business
Globalstar, Inc. (“Globalstar” or the “Company”) was formed as a Delaware limited liability company in November 2003 and was converted into a Delaware corporation on March 17, 2006.
Globalstar is a leading provider of mobile voice and data communications services globally via satellite. Globalstar’s first-generation network, originally owned by Globalstar, L.P. (“Old Globalstar”), was designed, built and launched in the late 1990s by a technology partnership led by Loral Space and Communications (“Loral”) and Qualcomm Incorporated (“Qualcomm”). On February 15, 2002, Old Globalstar and three of its subsidiaries filed voluntary petitions under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code. In 2004, Thermo Capital Partners LLC (“Thermo”) became Globalstar’s principal owner, and Globalstar completed the acquisition of the business and assets of Old Globalstar. Thermo remains Globalstar’s largest stockholder. Globalstar’s Executive Chairman and CEO controls Thermo and its affiliates. Two other members of Globalstar’s Board of Directors are also directors, officers or minority equity owners of various Thermo entities.
The Company’s satellite communications business, by providing critical mobile communications to subscribers, serves principally the following markets: recreation and personal; government; public safety and disaster relief; oil and gas; maritime and fishing; natural resources, mining and forestry; construction; utilities; and transportation.
Globalstar currently provides the following communications services:
The equipment Globalstar offers to customers consists principally of:
Globalstar provides Duplex, SPOT and Simplex products and services to customers directly and through resellers and independent gateway operators (“IGOs”).
Use of Estimates in Preparation of Financial Statements
The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from estimates. Certain reclassifications have been made to prior year consolidated financial statements to conform to current year presentation. The Company evaluates estimates on an ongoing basis. Significant estimates include the value of derivative instruments, the allowance for doubtful accounts, the net realizable value of inventory, the useful life and value of property and equipment, the value of stock-based compensation, the reserve for product warranties, and income taxes.
Principles of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Globalstar and all its subsidiaries. All significant inter-company transactions and balances have been eliminated in the consolidation.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on hand and highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less.
Restricted Cash
At December 31, 2011, restricted cash is comprised of funds held in escrow by one financial institution to secure the Company’s payment obligations related to its Facility Agreement. At December 31, 2010, restricted cash also included cash held in escrow at an additional financial institution to secure the Company’s scheduled semi-annual interest payments on the 5.75% Notes. The last payment from this escrow account was made in April 2011.
Derivative Instruments
The Company enters into financing arrangements that are hybrid instruments that contain embedded derivative features. Derivative instruments are recognized as either assets or liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets and are measured at fair value with gains or losses recognized in earnings. Embedded derivatives that are not clearly and closely related to the host contract are bifurcated and recognized at fair value with changes in fair value recognized as either a gain or loss in earnings if they can be reliably measured. The Company determines the fair value of derivative instruments based on available market data using appropriate valuation models provided by independent valuation experts.
Concentration of Credit Risk
Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to significant concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash. Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash consist primarily of highly liquid short-term investments deposited with financial institutions that are of high credit quality.
Accounts Receivable
Accounts receivable are uncollateralized, without interest and consist primarily of on-going service revenue and equipment receivables. The Company performs on-going credit evaluations of its customers and records specific allowances for bad debts based on factors such as current trends, the length of time the receivables are past due and historical collection experience. Accounts receivable are considered past due in accordance with the contractual terms of the arrangements. Accounts receivable balances that are determined likely to be uncollectible are included in the allowance for doubtful accounts. After all attempts to collect a receivable have failed, the receivable is written off against the allowance.
The following is a summary of the activity in the allowance for doubtful accounts (in thousands):
Inventory
Inventory consists of purchased products, including fixed and mobile user terminals and accessories. Inventory is stated at the lower of cost or market value. Cost is computed using the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method which determines the acquisition cost on a FIFO basis. Inventory write-downs are measured as the difference between the cost of inventory and the market value, and are recorded as a cost of subscriber equipment sales - reduction in the value of inventory. At the point of any inventory write downs to market, a new, lower cost basis for that inventory is established, and any subsequent changes in facts and circumstances do not result in the restoration of the former cost basis or increase in that newly established cost basis. Product sales and returns from the previous 12 months and future demand forecasts are reviewed and excess and obsolete inventory is written off. A liability is recorded for firm, noncancelable, and unconditional purchase commitments with contract manufacturers and suppliers for quantities in excess of future demand forecasts consistent with the valuation of excess and obsolete inventory. Inventory allowances are recorded for inventories with a lower market value. In recognition of change in the market and obsolescence, the Company wrote down the value of inventory by $8.8 million, $10.9 million, and $0.9 million in the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively.
Property and Equipment
The Globalstar System includes costs for the design, manufacture, test, and launch of a constellation of low earth orbit satellites (the “Space Component”), and primary and backup control centers and gateways (the “Ground Component”). Property and equipment is stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation.
Costs associated with the design, manufacture, test and launch of its Space and Ground Components are capitalized. Capitalized costs associated with the Company’s Space Component, Ground Component, and other assets are tracked by fixed asset category and are allocated to each asset as it comes into service. When a second-generation satellite is incorporated into the second-generation constellation, the Company begins depreciation on the date the satellite is placed into service, which is the point that the satellite reaches its orbital altitude, over its estimated useful life.
The Company capitalizes interest costs associated with the construction of its Space and Ground Components. Capitalized interest is added to the cost of the underlying asset and is amortized over the useful life of the asset after it is placed into service.
Depreciation is provided using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the respective assets, as follows:
The Company evaluates the appropriateness of estimated useful lives assigned to property and equipment and revises such lives to the extent warranted by changing facts and circumstances. On October 1, 2010, the Company reduced the useful lives of its eight satellites launched in 2007 from 8 years to 6.5 years due to changes in the probability of functionality of Duplex services. The remaining carrying amount of these eight satellites is being depreciated prospectively over their remaining useful lives.
For assets that are sold or retired, including satellites that are de-orbited and no longer providing services, the estimated cost and accumulated depreciation is removed from property and equipment.
The Company assesses the impairment of long-lived assets when indicators of impairment are present. Recoverability of assets is measured by comparing the carrying amounts of the assets to the future undiscounted cash flows, excluding financing costs. If impairment is determined to exist, any related impairment loss is calculated based on fair value. The Company records losses from the in-orbit failure of a satellite in the period it is determined that the satellite is not recoverable.
Deferred Financing Costs
These costs represent costs incurred in obtaining long-term debt. These costs are amortized as additional interest expense over the term of the corresponding debt, or the first put option date for the long-term convertible notes. As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, the Company had net deferred financing costs of $53.5 million and $59.9 million, respectively. Approximately $3.7 million, $3.4 million, and $6.5 million of deferred financing costs were recorded as interest expense for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
Stock-Based Compensation
The Company recognizes compensation expense in the financial statements for both employee and non-employee share-based awards based on the grant date fair value of those awards. Additionally, stock-based compensation expense includes an estimate for pre-vesting forfeitures and is recognized over the requisite service periods of the awards on a straight-line basis, which is generally commensurate with the vesting term.
Goodwill
Goodwill represented the excess of the aggregate purchase price over the fair value of the net assets acquired in a purchase business combination. In assessing the recoverability of goodwill, the Company must make assumptions to determine the fair value of the respective assets. The Company tests goodwill for possible impairment on an annual basis and at any other time if events occur or circumstances indicate that the current carrying amount of goodwill may not be recoverable. Its annual testing of goodwill is based on carrying value and its estimate of fair value at December 31. The Company estimates the fair value of the Company using a market approach and discounted cash flows valuation techniques and compares these estimates to the carrying value of the Company.
Asset Retirement Obligation
Liabilities arising from legal obligations associated with the retirement of long-lived assets are measured at fair value and recorded as a liability. Upon initial recognition of a liability for retirement obligations, the Company records an asset, which is depreciated over the life of the asset to be retired.
The Company capitalized, as part of the carrying amount, the estimated costs associated with the eventual retirement of gateways owned by the Company. As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, the Company had accrued approximately $0.9 million, respectively, for asset retirement obligations. The Company believes this estimate will be sufficient to satisfy the Company’s obligation under leases to remove the gateway equipment and restore the sites to their original condition.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The carrying amount of accounts receivable and accounts payable is equal to or approximates fair value. The Company believes it is not practicable to determine the fair value of its long-term debt. Unlike typical long-term debt, interest rates and other terms for long-term debt are not readily available and generally involve a variety of factors, including due diligence by the debt holders. As such, it is not practicable to determine the fair value of long-term debt without incurring additional costs. It is estimated that the fair value of long-term debt is less than its carrying amount.
Revenue Recognition and Deferred Revenues
Duplex
For Duplex customers and resellers, the Company recognizes revenue for monthly access fees in the period services are rendered. Access fees represent the minimum monthly charge for each line of service based on its associated rate plan. The Company also recognizes revenue for airtime minutes in excess of the monthly access fees in the period such minutes are used. Under certain annual plans where customers prepay for minutes, revenue is deferred until the minutes are used or the prepaid time period expires. Unused minutes are accumulated until they expire, usually one year after activation. In addition, the Company offers other annual plans whereby the customer is charged an annual fee to access the Company’s system. These fees are recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the plan. In some cases, the Company charges a per minute rate whereby it recognizes the revenue when each minute is used.
Credits granted to customers are expensed or charged against revenue or deferred revenue upon issuance.
Certain subscriber acquisition costs, including such items as dealer commissions, internal sales commissions and equipment subsidies, are expensed at the time of the related sale. Royalty payments are deferred and recognized as expense over the contract term.
SPOT and Simplex
The Company sells SPOT and Simplex services as annual plans or multi-year plans and defers and recognizes revenue ratably over the service term, beginning when the service is activated by the customer.
IGOs
The Company owns and operates its satellite constellation and earns a portion of its revenues through the sale of airtime minutes or data on a wholesale basis to IGOs. Revenue from services provided to IGOs is recognized based upon airtime minutes used by customers of the IGOs and contractual fee arrangements. Where collection is uncertain, revenue is recognized when cash payment is received.
Equipment
Subscriber equipment revenue represents the sale of fixed and mobile user terminals, accessories and SPOT and Simplex products. The Company recognizes revenue upon shipment provided title and risk of loss have passed to the customer, persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, the fee is fixed and determinable and collection is probable.
Other
At times, the Company will sell subscriber equipment through multi-element contracts that bundle subscriber equipment with services. When the Company sells subscriber equipment and services in bundled arrangements and determines that it has separate units of accounting, the Company will allocate the bundled contract price among the various contract deliverables based on each deliverable’s relative fair value. The Company will determine vendor specific objective evidence of fair value by assessing sales prices of subscriber equipment and services when they are sold to customers on a stand-alone basis.
The Company does not record sales taxes collected from customers in revenue.
The Company provides certain engineering services to assist customers in developing new applications related to its system. The revenues associated with these services are recorded when the services are rendered, and the expenses are recorded when incurred. The Company records revenues and costs associated with long term engineering contracts on the percentage-of-completion method of accounting.
Research and Development Expenses
Research and development costs were $1.9 million, $3.7 million, and $4.3 million for 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively. These costs are expensed as incurred as cost of services and primarily include the cost of new product development, chip set design, software development and engineering.
Advertising Expenses
Advertising costs were $2.0 million, $2.6 million, and $3.4 million for 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively. These costs are expensed as incurred as marketing, general, and administrative expenses.
Warranty Expense
Warranty terms extend from 90 days on equipment accessories to one year for fixed and mobile user terminals. An accrual is made when it is estimable and probable that a loss has been incurred based on historical experience. Warranty costs are based on historical trends in warranty charges as a percentage of gross product shipments. A provision for estimated future warranty costs is recorded as cost of sales when products are shipped. The resulting accrual is reviewed regularly and periodically adjusted to reflect changes in warranty cost estimates.
Foreign Currency
The functional currency of the Company’s foreign consolidated subsidiaries is their local currency. Assets and liabilities of its foreign subsidiaries are translated into United States dollars based on exchange rates at the end of the reporting period. Income and expense items are translated at the average exchange rates prevailing during the reporting period. For 2011, 2010, and 2009, the foreign currency translation adjustments recorded were $0.4 million, $1.5 million, and $4.2 million, respectively. These adjustments are classified in the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss.
Foreign currency transaction gains (losses) were $(0.5) million, $(0.1) million, and $1.7 million for 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively. These were classified as other income or expense on the statement of operations.
Income Taxes
Until January 1, 2006, the Company and its U.S. operating subsidiaries were treated as partnerships for U.S. tax purposes. Generally, taxable income or loss, deductions and credits of the partnerships were passed through to the partners. Effective January 1, 2006, the Company elected to be taxed as a C corporation for U.S. tax purposes, and the Company and its U.S. operating subsidiaries began accounting for income taxes as a corporation.
The Company recognizes deferred tax assets and liabilities for future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis, operating losses and tax credit carry-forwards. The Company measures deferred tax assets and liabilities using tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The Company recognizes the effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates in income in the period that includes the enactment date.
The Company also recognizes valuation allowances to reduce deferred tax assets to the amount that is more likely than not to be realized. In assessing the likelihood of realization, management considers: (i) future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences; (ii) future taxable income exclusive of reversing temporary differences and carry-forwards; (iii) taxable income in prior carry-back year(s) if carry-back is permitted under applicable tax law; and (iv) tax planning strategies.
Comprehensive Loss
All components of comprehensive loss, including the minimum pension liability adjustment and foreign currency translation adjustment, are reported in the financial statements in the period in which they are recognized. Comprehensive income (loss) is defined as the change in equity during a period from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources.
Loss Per Share
The Company is required to present basic and diluted earnings per share. Basic loss per share is computed by dividing loss available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. For 2011, 2010, and 2009, diluted net loss per share of common stock was the same as basic net loss per share of common stock, because the effects of potentially dilutive securities are anti-dilutive.
At December 31, 2011 and 2010, 17.3 million in Borrowed Shares, as defined, related to the Company’s Share Lending Agreement remained outstanding. The Company does not consider the Borrowed Shares outstanding for the purposes of computing and reporting its earnings per share.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
In December 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2011-12, “Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Deferral of the Effective Date for Amendments to the Presentation of Reclassifications of Items Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income in Accounting Standards Update No. 2011-05.” This ASU defers the changes in ASU 2011-05 that relate to the presentation of reclassification adjustments and supersedes certain pending paragraphs. ASU 2011-12 will be applied retrospectively. ASU 2011-12 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2011. Early adoption is permitted. This adoption will not have an impact on the Company’s consolidated condensed financial statements.
In June 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-05, “Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Presentation of Comprehensive Income”. This ASU amends the FASB Accounting Standards Codification (“Codification”) to allow an entity the option to present the total of comprehensive income, the components of net income, and the components of other comprehensive income either in a single continuous statement of comprehensive income or in two separate but consecutive statements. In both choices, an entity is required to present each component of net income along with total net income, each component of other comprehensive income along with a total for other comprehensive income, and a total amount for comprehensive income. ASU 2011-05 eliminates the option to present the components of other comprehensive income as part of the statement of changes in stockholders’ equity. The amendments to the Codification in the ASU do not change the items that must be reported in other comprehensive income or when an item of other comprehensive income must be reclassified to net income. ASU 2011-05 will be applied retrospectively. ASU 2011-05 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2011. Early adoption is permitted. This adoption will not have an impact on the Company’s consolidated condensed financial statements.
In May 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-04, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Amendments to Achieve Common Fair Value Measurement and Disclosure Requirements in U.S. GAAP and IFRSs. The amendments in this ASU generally represent clarification of Topic 820, but also include instances where a particular principle or requirement for measuring fair value or disclosing information about fair value measurements has changed. This update results in common principles and requirements for measuring fair value and for disclosing information about fair value measurements in accordance with GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”). The amendments are effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2011 and are to be applied prospectively. Early application is not permitted. The Company does not expect the adoption of ASU 2011-04 will have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.
Effective January 1, 2010, the Company adopted ASU 2010-06, Improving Disclosures about Fair Value Measurements. This guidance requires a reporting entity to disclose separately the amounts of significant transfers in and out of Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurements and to describe the reasons for the transfers. In addition, in the reconciliation for fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs, or Level 3, a reporting entity is required to disclose separately information about purchases, sales, issuances and settlements (that is, on a gross basis rather than one net number). The updated guidance also requires that an entity should provide fair value measurement disclosures for each class of assets and liabilities and disclosures about the valuation techniques and inputs used to measure fair value for both recurring and non-recurring fair value measurements for Level 2 and Level 3 fair value measurements. The guidance was effective for interim or annual financial reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2009, except for the disclosures about purchases, sales, issuances and settlements in the roll forward activity in Level 3 fair value measurements, which are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2010 and for interim periods within those fiscal years. The Company adopted the guidance with respect to the roll forward activity in Level 3 fair value measurements effective January 1, 2011. The adoption did not have an impact on the Company’s results of operations or financial position. |
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- Definition
The entire disclosure for all significant accounting policies of the reporting entity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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MANAGEMENT'S PLANS REGARDING FUTURE OPERATIONS
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MANAGEMENT'S PLANS REGARDING FUTURE OPERATIONS | 2. MANAGEMENT'S PLANS REGARDING FUTURE OPERATIONS
During the three years ended December 31, 2011, the Company generated operating losses and negative cash flows from operations, which adversely affected the Company’s liquidity. These operating results were caused primarily by the deterioration of the Company’s first-generation satellite constellation and delays in the launch and deployment of its second-generation satellites, which in turn reduced its ability to provide reliable Duplex service to its customers. In response to these circumstances, the Company developed a plan to improve operations; complete the launches of the remaining second-generation satellites; complete the deployment, construction and activation of additional second-generation satellites and next-generation ground upgrades; and obtain additional financing.
As further described below, in 2011 and the first quarter of 2012, the Company took the following steps pursuant to its plan.
The Company believes that these actions, combined with additional actions included in its 2012 operating plan, will result in improved cash flows from operations in 2012. These additional actions include, among other things, the following:
The Company believes that cash on hand, improved cash flows from operations, resulting from the successful execution of the Company’s 2012 operating plan, coupled with anticipated draws of the remaining $45.8 million in its contingent equity account will be sufficient to fund the completion of the fourth launch of second-generation satellites and to satisfy the Company’s existing debt and restructured contractual obligations in 2012 without additional external financing. However, substantial uncertainties remain related to the arbitration with Thales, the timing and outcome of the fourth launch of the second-generation satellites, reaching a solution to the momentum wheel issues, the remaining useful life of the first-generation satellites still in service and the impact and timing of the Company’s plans to improve operating cash flows and to restructure its contractual obligations. If the resolution of these uncertainties materially and negatively impact cash and liquidity, the Company’s ability to continue to execute its business plans, without additional external financing, will be adversely affected.
Further, the Company’s longer-term business plan includes launches of additional second-generation satellites, major improvements to its ground infrastructure, and new product releases. To successfully execute these longer-term plans, the Company will need to obtain additional external financing to fund these capital expenditures, in addition to its own cash flows from operations. Although the Company is in the process of arranging such financing and is continuing to address requirements with contractors, there is no guarantee that these efforts will be successful given the scope, complexity, cost and risk of completing the construction of the space and ground components of its second-generation constellation and the development of marketable new products. Accordingly, the Company is not in a position to estimate when, or if, these longer-term plans will be completed and the effect this will have on the Company’s performance. |
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The entire disclosures of supplemental information, including descriptions and amounts, related to the balance sheet, income statement, and/or cash flow statement. No definition available.
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PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
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PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT | 3. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Property and equipment consists of the following (in thousands):
Contracts
The following table presents the contract prices for the construction of the Company’s second-generation satellites and ground upgrades (in thousands):
As of December 31, 2011, the Company has incurred $959.8 million of costs under these contracts, including contracts payable and accrued expenses of $37.4 million, excluding interest. Of the amounts incurred, the Company has capitalized $954.3 million and expensed $5.5 million of research and development costs.
Second-Generation Satellites
In June 2009, the Company and Thales entered into an amended and restated contract for the construction of the Company’s second-generation low-earth orbit satellites and related services, to incorporate prior amendments and acceleration requests, and to make other non-material changes to the contract entered into in November 2006. The Company has launched 18 of the 24 second-generation satellites (six satellites each were launched in each of October 2010, July 2011, and December 2011) and expects to launch the remaining six satellites during the second half of 2012. The Company also has a contract with Thales to construct additional second-generation satellites at a fixed price. The Company is currently in arbitration with Thales to enforce certain rights under this contract under which the Company has placed an order for additional satellites. See Note 9 for further discussion.
In March 2007, the Company and Thales entered into an agreement for the construction of the Satellite Operations Control Centers, Telemetry Command Units and In Orbit Test Equipment (collectively, the “Control Network Facility”) for the Company’s second-generation satellite constellation. The Control Network Facility achieved its final acceptance milestone in October 2010.
The Company’s second-generation satellites were designed with four momentum wheels. The design requires three functioning momentum wheels for operations. One momentum wheel is redundant (a non-operating wheel acting as a spare on the satellite in space). Momentum wheels are flywheels used to provide attitude control and stability on spacecraft. Momentum wheels on certain satellites launched in October 2010 and July 2011 have exhibited anomalous behavior necessitating the removal of such wheels from service. To date, this has not had a significant impact on the Company’s overall service levels. The satellites launched in December 2011 have not experienced any similar behavior associated with their momentum wheels. Globalstar and Thales are currently working together to develop a software-based solution that the Company plans to upload to certain satellites that may permit such satellites to operate on two momentum wheels. Although Thales has successfully conducted computer simulations of the proposed software solution, the Company can provide no assurance that a solution will be developed and implemented successfully. If the Company is unable to successfully develop and implement this solution, or otherwise resolve the anomalous behavior, its investment in certain satellites may be impaired.
In March 2010, the Company and Arianespace entered into an amended and restated contract to incorporate prior amendments to the contract entered into in September 2007 for the launch of the Company’s second-generation satellites and certain pre and post-launch services under which Arianespace agreed to make four launches of six satellites each and one optional launch of six satellites. Notwithstanding the one optional launch, the Company may contract separately with Arianespace or another provider of launch services after Arianespace’s firm launch commitments are fulfilled.
In August 2011, the Company received its final authorization to operate its second-generation satellite constellation. The French Ministry commenced the process to register the satellites with the United Nations under the Convention on Registration of Objects Launched into Outer Space. As a result, the Company activated its ground stations in North America to send and receive call traffic with the second-generation satellites, thus improving coverage availability for the Company’s Duplex customers in that region.
Next-Generation Gateways and Other Ground Facilities
In May 2008, the Company and Hughes entered into an agreement under which Hughes will design, supply and implement (a) the Radio Access Network (RAN) ground network equipment and software upgrades for installation at a number of the Company’s satellite gateway ground stations and (b) satellite interface chips to be a part of the User Terminal Subsystem (UTS) in various next-generation Globalstar devices.
From its inception through November 2011, the Company has amended this agreement extending the performance, revising certain payment milestones and adding new features. The Company has the option to purchase additional RANs and other software and hardware improvements at pre-negotiated prices. The Company and Hughes have amended their agreement to extend the deadline to make certain scheduled payments previously due under the contract. See Note 8 for further discussion.
In October 2008, the Company signed an agreement with Ericsson, a leading global provider of technology and services to telecom operators. Since inception of the contract through December 2011, the Company has amended this contract to increase its obligations for additional deliverables and features. According to the contract, Ericsson will work with the Company to develop, implement and maintain a ground interface, or core network, system that will be installed at the Company’s satellite gateway ground stations. The Company and Ericsson have amended their agreement to extend the deadline to make certain scheduled payments previously due under the contract. See Note 8 for further discussion.
Capitalized Interest and Depreciation Expense
The following tables summarize capitalized interest for the periods indicated below (in thousands):
The following table summarizes depreciation expense for the periods indicated below (in thousands):
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- Definition
The entire disclosure for long-lived, physical assets that are used in the normal conduct of business to produce goods and services and not intended for resale. Examples include land, buildings, machinery and equipment, and other types of furniture and equipment including, but not limited to, office equipment, furniture and fixtures, and computer equipment and software. This disclosure may include property plant and equipment accounting policies and methodology, a schedule of property, plant and equipment gross, additions, deletions, transfers and other changes, depreciation, depletion and amortization expense, net, accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization expense and useful lives, income statement disclosures, assets held for sale and public utility disclosures. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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LONG-TERM DEBT
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LONG-TERM DEBT | 4. LONG-TERM DEBT
Long-term debt consists of the following (in thousands):
The table above represents the principal amount and carrying value of long-term debt at December 31, 2011 and 2010. The principal amounts shown above include payment in kind interest, if any. The carrying value is net of any discounts to the loan amounts at issuance, as further described below, including accretion.
Facility Agreement
On June 5, 2009, the Company entered into a $586.3 million senior secured facility agreement (the “Facility Agreement”) with a syndicate of bank lenders, including BNP Paribas, Natixis, Société Générale, Caylon, Crédit Industriel et Commercial as arrangers and BNP Paribas as the security agent and COFACE agent. COFACE, the French export credit agency, has provided a 95% guarantee to the lending syndicate of the Company’s obligations under the Facility Agreement. The facility is comprised of:
The facility will mature 84 months after the first repayment date, as amended. Scheduled semi-annual principal repayments will begin on the earlier of eight months after the fourth launch of the second-generation constellation or June 30, 2013. The facility bears interest at a floating LIBOR rate, plus a margin of 2.07% through December 2012, increasing to 2.25% through December 2017, and 2.40% thereafter.
The Company’s obligations under the facility are guaranteed on a senior secured basis by all of its domestic subsidiaries and are secured by a first priority lien on substantially all of the assets of the Company and its domestic subsidiaries (other than their FCC licenses), including patents and trademarks, 100% of the equity of the Company’s domestic subsidiaries and 65% of the equity of certain foreign subsidiaries. The Facility Agreement contains customary events of default and requires that the Company satisfy various financial and nonfinancial covenants. If the Company violates any of these covenants and is unable to obtain waivers, the Company would be in default under the agreement and payment of the indebtedness could be accelerated or prohibit the Company from utilizing the Facility Agreement until the default has been remediated. The acceleration of the Company’s indebtedness under one agreement may permit acceleration of indebtedness under other agreements that contain cross-default or cross-acceleration provisions. As of December 31, 2011, the Company was in compliance with all such covenants.
Amounts repaid under the Facility Agreement may not be reborrowed. The Company must repay the loans (a) in full upon a change in control or (b) partially (i) if there are excess cash flows on certain dates, (ii) upon certain insurance and condemnation events and (iii) upon certain asset dispositions. The Facility Agreement includes covenants that (a) require the Company to maintain a minimum liquidity amount after the second repayment date, a minimum adjusted consolidated EBITDA, a minimum debt service coverage ratio and a maximum net debt to adjusted consolidated EBITDA ratio and (b) place limitations on the ability of the Company and its subsidiaries to incur debt, create liens, dispose of assets, carry out mergers and acquisitions, make loans, investments, distributions or other transfers and capital expenditures or enter into certain transactions with affiliates. The Company is permitted to make cash payments under the terms of its 5.75% Notes. The Facility Agreement requires the Company to fund a Debt Service Account. The funds in this account are to be used to make the next payment of principal and interest due under the Facility.
By Order dated October 28, 2010, the French Ministry for the Economy, Industry and Employment authorized Globalstar Europe SARL, the Company’s wholly owned subsidiary, to operate its second-generation satellite constellation. On November 23, 2010, the French Postal and Electronic Communications Regulatory Authority granted a license to Globalstar Europe SARL, to use certain frequency bands to provide mobile satellite service from 1610-1621.35 MHz and 2483.5-2500 MHz. This ended the prohibition on borrowings under the Facility Agreement, while the Company pursued the license from the U.S. authorities.
On December 22, 2010, the Company entered into Amendment Letter No. 4 with the lenders and agent party thereto primarily due to the effects on Thales of an earthquake that damaged one of its facilities. The amendment delayed the first semi-annual principal repayment date; delayed the final maturity date by the amount of the delay of the first principal repayment date; reduced the minimum adjusted consolidated EBITDA covenant requirements for all relevant periods from the period ending December 31, 2010 through the period ending June 30, 2012; and delayed the effectiveness of the minimum debt service coverage ratio by six months to the period commencing on July 1, 2011 and ending December 31, 2012 if no principal payment is required to be made in 2011.
On March 16, 2011, the Company entered into Amendment Letter No. 5 to the Facility Agreement, which waived the obligation of the Company to deliver to the COFACE agent a satellite communication license issued by U.S. regulatory authorities no later than February 28, 2011. Under the amendment, the Company was required to deliver to the COFACE agent a special temporary authority (“STA”) granted by the FCC by no later than March 31, 2011, which licenses the Company to commercially operate its ground stations in connection with its existing and future satellites in the U.S. for a period of no less than 90 days. The Company was required to provide a satellite communication license issued by U.S. regulatory authorities not later than the earlier of September 15, 2011 or the expiration of the STA. The amendment also included a provision that failing to provide the license would constitute an event of default.
On March 29, 2011, the Company entered into Amendment No. 6 to the Facility Agreement, which removed the U.S. License requirement of Amendments No. 3 and No. 5 and required that the conditional permanent U.S. license received by the Company on March 18, 2011 be in full force not later than August 31, 2011. The amendment also included a provision that failing to provide the permanent license would constitute an event of default.
On August 29, 2011, the Company received its final authorization to operate its second-generation satellite constellation. The receipt of this final authorization satisfied the requirements of Amendment No. 6 to the Facility Agreement as discussed above. The French Ministry commenced the process to register the satellites with the United Nations under the Convention on Registration of Objects Launched into Outer Space. As a result, the Company activated its ground stations in North America to send and receive call traffic with the second-generation satellites, thus improving coverage availability for the Company’s Duplex customers in that region.
On September 30, 2011, the Company entered into a Deed of Waiver and Amendment Letter No. 7 to its Facility Agreement which delays the last date for final in-orbit acceptance; permits the Company to order six second-generation satellites under the Contract with Thales provided that the purchase price does not exceed €55.2 million; requires that, following an acceptance of the order by Thales, Thermo fund no less than $25 million into an escrow account to provide for the initial payments for the satellites (the Company intends to issue additional equity or subordinated indebtedness to Thermo in return); specifies that, in addition to operating expenses, inventory purchases, taxes, maintenance and certain other budgeted costs, the Company may use funds in the contingent equity account to pay capital expenditures related to the completion and launch of 25 second-generation satellites, provided that, if the funds are used for capital expenditures, the Company must raise proceeds from equity or subordinated loans in the same amount as the proposed contingent equity withdrawal; and extends the term of the contingent equity agreement to December 31, 2014.
On January 23, 2012, the Company entered into Amendment Letter No. 8 to its Facility Agreement which extended the availability period to utilize the remaining funds under the Facility to June 14, 2012.
On March 6, 2012, the Company entered into Amendment Letter No. 9 to its Facility Agreement which extends to December 31, 2012 the availability period to utilize the funds remaining under the Facility; delays to April 30, 2013 the last date for final in-orbit acceptance of 24 second-generation satellites; delays the first repayment date for principal payments to the earlier of eight months after the fourth launch of second-generation satellites or June 30, 2013; and amended certain covenants including (a) adjusted consolidated EBITDA, (b) debt service coverage ratio and (c) net debt to adjusted consolidated EBITDA.
Contingent Equity Agreement
On June 19, 2009, the Company entered into a Contingent Equity Agreement with Thermo whereby Thermo agreed to deposit $60 million into a contingent equity account to fulfill a condition precedent for borrowing under the Facility Agreement. Under the terms of the Facility Agreement, the Company may make draws from this account if and to the extent it has an actual or projected deficiency in its ability to meet obligations due within a forward-looking 90-day period. Thermo has pledged the contingent equity account to secure the Company’s obligations under the Facility Agreement.
The Contingent Equity Agreement provides that the Company will pay Thermo an availability fee of 10% per year for maintaining funds in the contingent equity account. This annual fee is payable solely in warrants to purchase common stock at $0.01 per share with a five-year exercise period from issuance. The number of shares subject to the warrants issuable is calculated by taking the outstanding funds available in the contingent equity account multiplied by 10% divided by the lower of the Company’s common stock price on the issuance date or $1.37, whichever is lower, but not to be lower than $0.20. The common stock price is subject to a reset provision on certain valuation dates subsequent to issuance whereby the warrant price used in the calculation will be the lower of the warrant price on the issuance date or the Company’s common stock price on the valuation date. The Company determined that the warrants issued in conjunction with the availability fee are derivatives and records the value of the derivatives as a component of other non-current liabilities, at issuance. The offset is recorded in other assets and is amortized over the one year availability period.
When the Company makes draws on the contingent equity account, it issues Thermo shares of common stock calculated using a price per share equal to 80% of the average closing price of the common stock for the 15 trading days immediately preceding the draw. The 20% discount on the value of the shares issued to Thermo is treated as a deferred financing cost and is amortized over the remaining term of the Facility Agreement. Amounts can only be withdrawn from the account provided that no default has occurred and is continuing under the Facility Agreement. Thermo may withdraw undrawn amounts in the account after December 31, 2014. The Company made two draws totaling $14.2 million in 2011 and plans to draw the remaining funds during 2012.
The following table summarizes the balance and the draws on the contingent equity account (in thousands) and the resulting warrants and shares issued to Thermo since origination of the agreement as of December 31, 2011:
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