UPDATE AST SpaceMobile (NASDAQ: ASTS), based in Midland, TX, announced that it will launch its first satellites on or after September 12, from Cape Canaveral, FL. The company says the first five commercial satellites, called BlueBirds, each featuring the largest ever commercial communications arrays to be deployed in low Earth orbit, represent a significant milestone in AST SpaceMobile’s mission to bridge the digital divide and provide reliable cellular broadband service to billions worldwide.
This large array of antennas is designed to reach standard smartphones directly at cellular broadband speeds for voice, data and video and other non-communications government applications. After launch, the BlueBird satellites are planned to offer non-continuous cellular broadband service across the United States and in select markets globally. This initial service, based on premium 850 MHz low band spectrum, is planned to support beta test users for AT&T (NYSE: T) and Verizon (NYSE: VZ). The Bluebird system will target approximately 100 percent of the U.S. nationwide providing cellular coverage similar to a cell tower on the ground, but from space.
“This is a pivotal moment for AST SpaceMobile as we bring our vision to enhance cellular connectivity globally, with the support of our strategic partners and the unwavering commitment of our team,” said Abel Avellan, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of AST SpaceMobile. “We believe space-based broadband cellular connectivity will revolutionize how people connect, empowering communities and driving economic growth on a global scale.”
During 2024, AST SpaceMobile has secured additional strategic investments from AT&T, Verizon, Google (NASDAQ: GOOG) and Vodafone (NASDAQ: VOD), as well as new contract awards with the United States Government through a prime contractor. The company has agreements with more than 45 mobile network operators globally, which have over 2.8 billion existing subscribers in total.
By John Celentano, Inside Towers Business Editor
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