AST SpaceMobile sees New Glenn setback delaying initial commercial service into 2027
SpaceNews • • business
Key Points:
- AST SpaceMobile anticipates a 3-6 month delay in its direct-to-smartphone satellite constellation due to Blue Origin's recent launchpad explosion, pushing initial commercial services to the first half of 2027.
- The company had previously aimed to start early services by the end of 2026 with at least 45 satellites, targeting customers like AT&T and Verizon to fill terrestrial service gaps.
- Despite reliance on Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket, AST SpaceMobile plans to use multiple launch providers, including SpaceX and United Launch Alliance’s Vulcan, to maintain launch flexibility.
- Blue Origin’s CEO reported that the Cape Canaveral launchpad damage is less severe than expected, with New Glenn potentially returning to flight by year-end, though near-term use of the pad is unlikely.
- AST SpaceMobile emphasized its satellites are launcher-agnostic and has agreements with various providers to mitigate risks associated with Blue Origin's launch delays.