TLDR
- ASTS slips as AST SpaceMobile sets August BlueBird launch target.
- BlueBird 11, 12 and 13 move closer to Cape Canaveral launch.
- AST SpaceMobile plans new satellites to expand direct-phone service.
- ASTS rebounds after-hours despite closing lower on a volatile session.
- New BlueBird satellites aim to boost speed, coverage, and capacity.
AST SpaceMobile (ASTS) slipped 0.44% to $72.87, yet after-hours trading showed a rebound to $73.37. The move followed fresh launch plans for BlueBird satellites 11, 12, and 13. The company now targets the first half of August for liftoff from Cape Canaveral.
AST SpaceMobile Sets August Target for New BlueBird Launch
AST SpaceMobile plans to send BlueBird 11, 12, and 13 into low Earth orbit. The mission will carry the next batch of its next-generation satellites. It also supports the company’s wider space-based cellular broadband network.
The satellites will expand coverage for direct-to-device mobile services. AST SpaceMobile designs the network for standard, unmodified smartphones. Therefore, users will not need special hardware to connect.
The company aims to support voice, data, and video services from space. It also targets both commercial and government use cases. However, the launch date can change due to readiness, weather, and other factors.
BlueBird Satellites Add Capacity and Speed
BlueBird 11, 12, and 13 carry commercial communications arrays of about 2,400 square feet. The size matches BlueBird satellites already operating in orbit. As a result, the new satellites maintain the company’s current large-array design.
AST SpaceMobile expects the satellites to deliver stronger network performance. The company says the next generation should offer nearly double peak data speeds. Its first Block 1 BlueBird satellites recently reached 98.9 Mbps download speeds.
The satellites use a stackable architecture for more efficient launches. They also include advanced composite carbon structures. In turn, the design helps AST SpaceMobile deploy several satellites through one mission.
Partnerships Support Global Expansion Plan
AST SpaceMobile has agreements with nearly 60 mobile network operators worldwide. These operators represent more than 3 billion subscribers combined. The company also maintains partnerships with AT&T, Verizon, Vodafone, Rakuten, and Google.
Its broader partner list includes Bell, Telus, stc Group, and American Tower. These agreements give the company a wider route toward future service. They also support its plan to connect underserved mobile users.
The company continues production and assembly through BlueBird 37. That pipeline shows the scale of its planned constellation buildout. Meanwhile, ASTS stock remains tied to launch execution, satellite output, and commercial service progress.
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