AST SpaceMobile is set to launch its first commercial satellites, a significant milestone for the company. The five new Bluebird satellites will be transported to Cape Canaveral, Florida, in early August, aiming for a September launch. Weather conditions will determine the exact launch date.
Once in low Earth orbit (LEO), these satellites will enable AST SpaceMobile to offer non-continuous commercial services. Among these services, direct-to-device (D2D) satellite communications will be key. This technology will provide mobile coverage in remote areas using unmodified smartphones.
However, for continuous coverage in the U.S., the company will need between 40 and 60 more satellites. Abel Avellan, Chairman and CEO of AST SpaceMobile, stated, “These first five satellites are built on the success of our in-orbit BlueWalker 3 satellite and will provide US nationwide non-continuous service with over 5,600 cells in premium low-band spectrum, with a planned 10-fold increase in processing bandwidth.”
The company already collaborates with giants like AT&T, Verizon, Vodafone, Google, Rakuten, American Tower, and Bell Canada. Additionally, it has agreements with 45 mobile network operators globally.
It’s worth noting that AST SpaceMobile is not alone in this venture. SpaceX has been working on D2D capabilities in collaboration with T-Mobile. The company’s Starlink satellite constellation plans to roll out initial D2D services in autumn, following the successful deployment of around 100 new-generation satellites.
In summary, AST SpaceMobile’s upcoming launch is a noteworthy advancement in satellite communications. Although the initial launch will not provide continuous service, it marks the beginning of a broader deployment plan aiming for comprehensive coverage. In an increasingly competitive landscape, these developments could change the dynamics of telecom connectivity, especially in remote areas.
