techBear, first let me state from the beginning that when it comes to stocks, I have learned to rely on accurate data and logical reasoning, as opposed to hopeful optimism and blind faith. This is not to imply that either describes the average GTEL investor, only that I require more than faith to achieve a comfort level in any stock. Obviously, I have seen enough in GTEL up to this point to allow me to invest a substantial sum in its shares. But IMO, "worry" (I prefer the term "concern") is part of the investment game, so I don't expect to stop being concerned any time soon.
You ask "shouldn't the fact that the ship is built be more then enough for you"? No, it is not enough - the ship must also fly or it is worthless. And if the timing did not matter, why would GTEL management have decided to move it at all, when they could have waited a few months for FAA approval to launch from their own facilities? Who cares, you ask? Obviously, GTEL management cares. And if they care, why shouldn't I? Why shouldn't you?
I hope you are right, and that moving it to another place is just a minor detail. But lacking that hopeful optimism and blind faith, I remain concerned. Remember, this is not just a test of the equipment, it is also a test of the political and regulatory systems which must be navigated (not just here in California, but anywhere a Stratellite is expected to be sold and assembled in the future). And even if those hurdles are successfully navigated in record time, I would hate for something as trivial as an unmarked power line or an unexpected wind shear to cause a financial disaster; any long delays would eliminate the tremendous first-mover advantage that GTEL currently enjoys.
For the record, I AM very impressed with the technology and engineering which has apparently gone into Sanswire 1. But IMHO, the fact that the road to 55,000 feet must travel along an as-yet unapproved, 100+ mile long, human-piloted, low-altitude California corridor is sufficient cause for concern.
