AST SpaceMobile, a Texas-based satellite company, plans to launch some of its BlueBird satellites for its space-based cellular broadband network using Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket in 2025 and 2026. New Glenn, which has been under development for over a decade by Jeff Bezos’ space venture, is set for its first launch this year at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. The rocket’s performance and capacity will enable AST SpaceMobile to deploy more of their satellites, providing continuous cellular broadband coverage in high-demand markets globally.
The Block 2 BlueBird network is designed to work directly with smartphones, allowing seamless switching between terrestrial cell towers and satellite signals based on location and coverage needs. AST SpaceMobile has strategic investors including AT&T, Verizon, Google, and Vodafone, and has agreements with over 45 mobile network operators worldwide. The Block 2 Bluebirds have communication arrays that cover up to 2,400 square feet when unfolded, making them the largest commercial satellites to be deployed in low Earth orbit.
AST SpaceMobile plans to deploy 60 satellites in the 2025-2026 timeframe, utilizing New Glenn, SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket, and India’s GSLV rocket. With New Glenn’s large fairing, each launch could send up to eight Block 2 BlueBirds to low Earth orbit. The company has secured orbital launch capacity for the next few years, enabling continuous cellular broadband coverage for its network and reaching its goal of providing service to millions of users globally, including the U.S. government.
Competition in the low-Earth-orbit satellite telecom market comes from SpaceX’s Starlink network, which has a cellular deal with T-Mobile, and Eutelsat’s OneWeb network. Amazon’s Project Kuiper is set to join the competition next year. Project Kuiper, like AST SpaceMobile, has also reserved New Glenn rockets for its satellite launches. SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rockets have been tasked with sending satellites for Starlink, Kuiper, and OneWeb, solidifying their place in the market for space-based internet services.
Blue Origin CEO Dave Limp expressed support for AST SpaceMobile’s deployment of BlueBird satellites, noting the expansion of connectivity across the globe and the positive impact on lives. With AST SpaceMobile’s innovative approach and ambitious missions, New Glenn is purpose-built to support their goals. This partnership highlights the collaboration between private space ventures and satellite companies to advance global connectivity through space-based technologies. The continuous advancements in satellite technology and rocket launches demonstrate the growing interest and investment in space-based services for worldwide communication needs.
