AST SpaceMobile, the company pioneering the first and only space-based cellular broadband network accessible directly by everyday smartphones for both commercial and government use, has announced the successful unfolding of its first five commercial satellites, known as BlueBirds 1-5.
This important post-launch milestone was achieved ahead of schedule, just six weeks after the satellites’ launch. The BlueBirds are now set to begin operations for commercial and U.S. government applications.
“The unfolding of our first five commercial satellites represents a significant milestone for AST SpaceMobile,” stated Abel Avellan, Founder, Chairman, and CEO. “These satellites comprise the largest commercial communications arrays ever deployed in low Earth orbit, marking a major achievement as we commission them and accelerate our path to commercial activity.”
Mr. Avellan further noted, “The deployment of our first five BlueBird commercial satellites is only the beginning of our journey. As we gear up for commercial services, we remain dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovation. Our team is already developing the next generation of satellites, which will offer ten times the capacity of our current BlueBirds, transforming mobile connectivity and providing even greater benefits to our customers and partners worldwide.”
AST SpaceMobile aims for 100% nationwide coverage across the United States, utilizing over 5,600 cells on premium low-band spectrum through strategic partnerships with leading operators like AT&T, Verizon, and Vodafone.
The company’s technology features large phased array antennas and is supported by over 3,450 patent and patent-pending claims. This innovative design seeks to extend cellular coverage globally, eliminating dead zones and delivering space-based cellular broadband connectivity to underserved areas. These advanced phased arrays, the largest ever deployed commercially in low Earth orbit, connect directly to standard smartphones at broadband speeds, removing the need for specialized equipment and enabling seamless use with existing mobile devices while enhancing and complementing mobile operator networks.
Additionally, AST SpaceMobile’s technology offers significant benefits for government applications, with dual-use capabilities that support both communications and non-communications use cases. The company’s innovative approach positions it to provide advanced space-based solutions for various strategic needs, delivering scalable, secure, and reliable connectivity to support a range of government missions.
