AST SpaceMobile has scheduled the launch of its initial five BlueBird satellites for September 12. These satellites will be deployed into low Earth orbit to kickstart AST’s commercial non-terrestrial network services, collaborating with carriers like Verizon and AT&T.
The launch, weather permitting, will take place at Cape Canaveral, Florida. AST SpaceMobile plans to stream the event live on its YouTube channel. This launch marks a significant milestone following delays due to supplier issues. Initially slated for late 2023, the launch moved to early 2024 before settling on the current date.
Abel Avellan, founder, chairman, and CEO of AST SpaceMobile, mentioned the company’s focus on enhancing global cellular connectivity. “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,” he said.
Post-launch, the BlueBird satellites will provide “non-continuous” cellular broadband across the U.S. and selected global markets. Utilizing low-band, 850 MHz spectrum from AT&T and Verizon, the plan targets nearly complete U.S. coverage with over 5,600 cells. Full continuous coverage demands a constellation of 45-60 satellites.
Technical advancements include the largest-ever commercial communications arrays for low Earth orbit. Joint tests conducted between AST and AT&T included streaming video from space using AT&T’s spectrum. Similar endeavors involve FirstNet and higher-frequency spectrums.
Corporate relationships are equally significant. Earlier this year, Verizon committed $100 million to AST SpaceMobile, with $65 million in commercial prepayments and $35 million in convertible notes. Other investors include Vodafone, Rakuten, Bell Canada, and American Tower.
AST SpaceMobile’s agreements extend to 45 mobile network operators globally, encompassing key players like Orange, Telefonica, TIM, Saudi Telecom Company, MTN, and more. These partnerships provide a solid foundation for achieving the company’s ambitious connectivity goals.
Financial updates reveal over $440 million in available cash and equivalents as of June 30, 2024. This includes $155 million from stock warrant exchanges and an additional $51.5 million in unutilized credit.
Chief Financial and Legal Officer Andrew Johnson stated, “We continue to have no plans to raise capital in an underwritten public equity offering through at least the end of 2024 and we believe we are sufficiently capitalized to execute our near-term operational initiatives.” Johnson emphasized commercial prepayments and quasi-governmental capital sources as key funding strategies.
