AST SpaceMobile, a Texas-based startup, successfully launched its largest satellite, BlueBird 6, on December 23, 2023, at 22:25 ET. The satellite, which lifted off aboard India’s LVM3 rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Center, marks a significant step for the company in its mission to create a space-based cellular broadband network directly accessible by standard cell phones.
BlueBird 6 is approximately three times larger than previous models, establishing itself as the biggest commercial satellite currently in Earth orbit. This launch positions AST SpaceMobile to compete directly with SpaceX’s established Starlink service, which has been setting the standard in satellite-based internet connectivity.
Advancing Satellite Technology
The initial satellite from AST SpaceMobile, BlueWalker 3, was launched in September 2022. It was designed to test the feasibility of establishing cellphone towers in space. A year later, this prototype successfully executed the first 5G phone call from space to a Samsung Galaxy S22, demonstrating the potential of AST’s technology. Since then, the company has launched five additional satellites, collectively known as BlueBird, and aims to send an additional 243 satellites into orbit.
The BlueBird series holds the distinction of being the largest commercial satellites in orbit. Upon deployment, BlueWalker 3 expanded its array, significantly increasing its brightness and visibility. The new BlueBird 6 will feature an even larger array, stretching across 2,400 square feet (approximately 223 square meters), solidifying its status as the largest satellite in existence.
AST SpaceMobile plans to launch between 45 and 60 of its next-generation satellites by the end of 2026. Each satellite is engineered to support up to 10 gigahertz of bandwidth, providing speeds of up to 120 megabytes per second for individual cellphones. This capability is expected to enhance connectivity across the United States and other selected markets.
Industry Competition and Future Prospects
While SpaceX operates a fleet of over 9,000 satellites—constituting around 60% of all satellites in orbit—AST SpaceMobile’s BlueBirds offer larger antennas designed for direct-to-cell service without the need for additional hardware. This feature could provide AST with a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving satellite internet market.
The rivalry between the two companies has intensified. In July, SpaceX raised concerns with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), asserting that AST SpaceMobile threatens the sustainability of low Earth orbit. In response, AST accused SpaceX of attempting to intimidate its competitors, following a previous letter sent to the FCC alleging that AST was spreading misinformation detrimental to SpaceX’s operations.
As both companies expand their satellite constellations, the competition continues to shape the landscape of satellite communication, with implications for the future of connectivity and the visible night sky.
