AST SpaceMobile is the first company building a space-based cellular network that lets standard smartphones connect directly, no modifications needed. Abel Avellan, a telecom veteran, founded the company in Texas back in 2017.
Since then, they’ve teamed up with major carriers serving more than 2.8 billion subscribers worldwide.
Abel Avellan started AST & Science LLC in May 2017, hoping to close cellular coverage gaps with satellite tech. Born in Venezuela and now an American citizen, Avellan brought a ton of experience from his time at Ericsson.
He also founded Emerging Markets Communications in 1999. That company focused on satellite-based communications for maritime and mobility, and eventually sold for $550 million in 2016.
In April 2021, AST went public after merging with New Providence through a SPAC deal. This move created AST SpaceMobile and raised $462 million to help build out their satellite constellation.
They started trading on NASDAQ as ASTS.
AST SpaceMobile hit some big technical milestones, starting with BlueWalker 1 in 2019. The real breakthrough happened with BlueWalker 3 in 2022, which enabled the world’s first space-to-smartphone calls using regular, unmodified devices.
In September 2024, they launched five commercial BlueBird satellites.
AST SpaceMobile wants to bring 4G and 5G cellular coverage everywhere on Earth with its SpaceMobile constellation. They’re targeting the 5.2 billion people who still don’t have reliable mobile broadband.
Their satellites make up the largest commercial communications arrays in low Earth orbit. Each BlueBird satellite, when fully deployed, covers 693 square feet and operates at altitudes between 508 and 527 kilometers.
Unlike other satellite internet services, SpaceMobile connects directly to existing smartphones—no extra gear or apps required. Users get on the network through partnerships with mobile operators like AT&T and Verizon in the US.
The system handles voice calls, text messaging, and data services up to 120 Mbps. Commercial service is set to launch in 2025 in key markets, with 45-60 satellites planned for deployment by 2026.
Abel Avellan leads as Chairman and CEO, steering the company’s vision and daily operations. He’s got over two decades of experience in satellite communications and emerging markets.
Andrew Johnson wears two hats as Chief Financial Officer and Chief Legal Officer. He oversees financial strategy and keeps the company in line with regulations.
Dr. Huiwen Yao acts as Chief Technology Officer, managing satellite design and network architecture. The engineering team works out of Midland, Texas, where they can build up to six satellites a month.
Their leadership team has landed partnerships with Nokia for 4G/5G tech and Google for Android integration. For launches, they work with SpaceX, Blue Origin, and the Indian Space Research Organization.
AST SpaceMobile runs a space-based cellular broadband network that connects ordinary smartphones straight to satellites—no device tweaks needed. They work with existing mobile network operators to deliver 4G and 5G speeds to underserved regions all over the globe.
AST SpaceMobile is building the first space-based cellular broadband network that regular smartphones can access. The company puts up huge satellites called BlueBirds, which basically act like cell towers in orbit.
These satellites fly in low Earth orbit to keep signal delays low. Each one packs powerful antennas that talk directly to phones on the ground, covering places where regular towers just can’t reach.
The network delivers 4G and 5G speeds you’d expect from ground-based networks. Users can make calls, send texts, and use data services through a satellite link.
AST SpaceMobile’s tech works with the phones people already have—no upgrades needed.
By 2026, they aim to have 45 to 60 satellites in orbit. That constellation will cover the US, Europe, Japan, and other big markets. The satellites use low-band 850 MHz spectrum for better signal reach.
They launched the first five commercial BlueBird satellites in 2024. These started testing direct connections with standard mobile devices across different regions.
SpaceMobile connects straight to regular smartphones—no special gear or apps. This direct-to-device method means you don’t need a satellite phone or any hardware tweaks.
The satellites use standard cellular protocols that phones already know. If a phone can’t find a ground-based tower, it automatically reaches out to the nearest SpaceMobile satellite. The switch happens behind the scenes, so users don’t have to do anything.
Each BlueBird satellite carries huge deployable antennas spanning thousands of square feet. These antennas send strong beams that reach phones from hundreds of miles above Earth.
The system keeps the signal strong with advanced beamforming tech. Multiple satellites can cover the same area to keep coverage steady.
The network adjusts signal power based on where the phone is and what the weather’s doing.
People get the same interface and features as they would with a regular cell network. Phones show standard network bars and run all apps normally. Emergency services and location features still work through the satellite link.
AST SpaceMobile partners with existing mobile network operators instead of trying to compete. Their satellite network extends operator coverage into places where building towers doesn’t make sense—or is just too expensive.
Major carriers across continents have signed up to integrate SpaceMobile coverage into their existing plans. Customers get satellite connectivity through their current provider, so there’s no need to switch.
Phones automatically switch to satellite coverage when they leave ground-based network areas. Billing and customer service stay with the original operator.
Operators get to offer truly global plans without investing in their own satellite infrastructure. This partnership model speeds up deployment in lots of markets at once.
AST SpaceMobile takes care of the satellites, while network partners handle customer service and billing. Each company sticks to what they do best, which should make for a smoother experience for users.
AST SpaceMobile builds its satellite tech around two main programs: the BlueWalker 3 prototype, which proved space-to-cell connectivity actually works, and the BlueBird constellation that brings commercial service to regular phones. These satellites feature massive antenna arrays—each one covers 693 square feet and connects directly to phones on Earth.
BlueWalker 3 launched in September 2022 and became the test satellite that showed space-based cellular service is possible. The satellite managed to complete voice calls from normal smartphones to space.
It features a 64-square-meter antenna system—the largest commercial communication array in low Earth orbit at the time. That huge surface area lets it connect with regular cell phones using standard 3GPP frequencies.
AST SpaceMobile used BlueWalker 3 to test 5G broadband connectivity for phones on the ground. The satellite proved that space-based cellular networks could work with existing devices, no tweaks required.
Engineers gathered important data about signal strength, coverage, and performance from this orbiting testbed.
The BlueBird constellation marks AST SpaceMobile’s first real commercial satellite deployment. The first BlueBird 1-5 mission launched five working satellites to provide cellular service across the US.
Each BlueBird satellite uses the same 693-square-foot communications array as BlueWalker 3. These arrays connect directly with cell phones through low-band spectrum frequencies.
The first five satellites offer non-continuous nationwide coverage with more than 5,600 cells. They work with major cellular providers to extend networks into space.
BlueBird satellites bring a planned 10-fold increase in processing bandwidth compared to the prototype. That boost should improve call quality and data speeds for users.
Block 2 BlueBird satellites are the next step in AST SpaceMobile’s constellation. These new satellites build on lessons from BlueWalker 3 and the first BlueBirds.
The updated design focuses on more processing power and broader coverage. Block 2 satellites will handle more data and more simultaneous users than the earlier models.
AST SpaceMobile designed these satellites to provide continuous coverage, unlike the first BlueBirds, which only offered non-continuous service. That’s a big step toward matching traditional cell service.
They hold more than 2,400 patent and patent-pending claims for their cellular broadband tech. These patents protect the innovations behind Block 2 BlueBird satellites.
AST SpaceMobile has landed partnerships with mobile network operators representing over 3 billion subscribers worldwide. They work with big names like Vodafone, Verizon, and Rakuten to bring space-based cellular connectivity to places that need it most.
AST SpaceMobile recently teamed up with Vodafone Idea to expand mobile connectivity across India’s unconnected regions. This partnership combines Vodafone Idea’s huge national network with AST SpaceMobile’s satellite tech.
They’re focusing on India’s rural areas, where building traditional towers just isn’t practical. Vodafone Idea is one of India’s largest mobile operators, so this could bring service to millions of new users.
This deal gives AST SpaceMobile access to one of the world’s biggest mobile markets. It’s a good example of how established operators can use satellite tech to go beyond their regular coverage.
AST SpaceMobile got special temporary authority from the FCC to work with Verizon in the US. That approval lets them test their space-based cellular services with one of America’s top wireless carriers.
Verizon’s participation helps validate AST SpaceMobile’s tech for the competitive US market. The partnership helps AST SpaceMobile serve areas where Verizon’s ground network falls short.
They’re focusing on bringing reliable cellular service to remote parts of the country. This includes rural communities and places hit by natural disasters where cell towers can be damaged or destroyed.
AST SpaceMobile has set up partnerships with mobile network operators across several continents. Rakuten is one of several international carriers working with the company to expand global connectivity.
These alliances cover Europe, Japan, and other key regions. The partnerships lay the groundwork for AST SpaceMobile’s plan to deploy 45 to 60 satellites by 2026.
Each operator brings local expertise and existing customer relationships. This strategy lets AST SpaceMobile scale its service without building new infrastructure from scratch.
AST SpaceMobile has lined up launch capacity through partnerships with SpaceX, Blue Origin, and ISRO to put 45-60 Block 2 BlueBird satellites in orbit by 2026. They plan to reach 243 satellites in orbit by 2028, with launch missions happening every month or two during the busiest deployment phase.
AST SpaceMobile sent its first five commercial BlueBird satellites into orbit on September 12, 2024. The launch happened at 4:52 a.m. EDT from Cape Canaveral aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.
These Block 1 satellites carry the largest communications arrays ever flown in low Earth orbit. Each satellite unfolds into an 8-meter by 8-meter array, so that’s 64 square meters of coverage per satellite.
The company now has six satellites in orbit, with five up and running. They’re getting ready to kick off beta service with AT&T and Verizon, using 850MHz spectrum in the U.S.
AST SpaceMobile filed a special temporary authority request with the FCC to get commercial operations started. The successful unfolding of these satellites really shows off the company’s 95 percent vertical integration—and yeah, their patent portfolio in direct-to-device communications is pretty extensive.
AST SpaceMobile made launch agreements with Blue Origin to use the New Glenn rocket for Block 2 BlueBird satellites. New Glenn’s seven-meter payload fairing holds double the volume of those five-meter class rockets.
With New Glenn, they can launch up to eight Block 2 BlueBird satellites per mission. That’s a big deal for AST SpaceMobile’s deployment plans, since it’s twice as many satellites as a Falcon 9 can carry.
Blue Origin still expects the first New Glenn launch to happen in late 2024. The rocket stands 320 feet tall and has seven BE-4 engines in its first stage.
This partnership makes New Glenn a key player in AST SpaceMobile’s constellation expansion. Blue Origin’s CEO Dave Limp said New Glenn is built for innovative missions like this one.
AST SpaceMobile plans to launch 100 satellites by the end of 2026. After that, they’ll add 72 more satellites every year through 2028.
The first Block 2 satellite launch is set for August 2025, using an Indian GSLV rocket.
Launch Schedule Overview:
Each Block 2 satellite costs around $19-21 million, including direct materials and launch expenses. That’s up from earlier estimates of $16-18 million due to higher launch costs.
Block 2 satellites have 2,400-square-foot arrays—about three and a half times bigger than Block 1. They’ll deliver peak data transmission speeds up to 120Mbps, supporting voice, data, and video.
SpaceX Falcon 9 rockets will launch four Block 2 satellites at a time. Blue Origin’s New Glenn will carry eight per mission. ISRO’s GSLV will handle the first Block 2 launch in August 2025.
AST SpaceMobile’s space-based cellular broadband network connects standard smartphones directly in major global markets. The company focuses on strategic regions, especially those where traditional cellular infrastructure just can’t reach billions of people.
AST SpaceMobile provides broadband services across the United States, Europe, and Japan as its primary markets. Their satellites went fully operational in late October, giving these regions continuous coverage.
The network aims for more than 5 billion mobile phone users worldwide. AST SpaceMobile connects directly with everyday, unmodified mobile devices, so there’s no need for special gear.
They’ve locked in launch agreements for 2025 and 2026 to keep expanding. These launches will boost orbital capacity for the U.S. Government and other strategic markets.
Key Coverage Areas:
AST SpaceMobile secured global S-Band spectrum rights to make this expansion happen. The S-Band gives them uncluttered space for orbital operations, avoiding interference from other services.
The space-based cellular broadband network tackles connectivity gaps that still affect billions. Traditional cell towers just can’t reach everywhere—sometimes it’s geography, sometimes it’s cost.
AST SpaceMobile’s satellites bring broadband to places where building ground infrastructure doesn’t make sense. The company skips the need for expensive terrestrial networks in tough terrain.
Mobile network operators team up with AST SpaceMobile to extend their coverage. These partnerships let carriers serve customers far beyond their usual tower range.
Because the satellites connect directly to standard smartphones, users don’t have to buy new devices or install anything special.
Power limits and orbital rules from regulators might affect performance in cities. Spectrum congestion in urban areas could also slow things down compared to rural places.
Remote locations probably get the biggest benefit from AST SpaceMobile’s approach. Mountains, deserts, islands, and rural regions often don’t have reliable cellular coverage.
The satellite constellation delivers consistent broadband, no matter what’s on the ground. People in remote areas can access the same quality connectivity as those in cities.
Remote Coverage Benefits:
Maritime and aviation applications take the service beyond land. Ships, planes, and offshore operations can stay connected through the satellite network.
Travelers can keep their service across countries, without switching carriers or buying local plans.
AST SpaceMobile’s network runs continuously across its coverage zones. The satellite constellation keeps 24/7 service available for all connected devices in operational areas.
AST SpaceMobile deploys massive phased array satellites with 2,400 square foot communication arrays. These satellites connect directly to standard smartphones—no modifications needed.
The company runs manufacturing facilities in Texas and works with several launch providers to deliver global cellular coverage from space.
AST SpaceMobile’s BlueBird satellites have the largest commercial communications arrays in low Earth orbit. Each Block 2 BlueBird satellite unfolds a 2,400 square foot phased array antenna after launch.
The satellites orbit at altitudes between 725 and 740 kilometers in 16 planes. Each satellite covers over 300,000 square miles on Earth’s surface.
Performance specs:
Their BlueWalker 3 prototype hit 21 Mbps download rates during tests. In 2023, it completed the world’s first space-based video call using regular smartphones.
BlueBird satellites use beamforming technology to focus signals on target areas. The phased array design allows them to steer beams dynamically, no moving parts needed.
AST SpaceMobile runs dual manufacturing sites in Midland, Texas. They can produce up to six BlueBird satellites each month.
The company keeps its headquarters and main operations center in Texas. The manufacturing facilities handle full satellite assembly and testing.
Each satellite goes through comprehensive ground testing before launch. AST SpaceMobile also partners with Nokia for 4G and 5G infrastructure in a five-year deal.
This partnership provides the terrestrial network tech that links with the satellites. For launches, they use SpaceX Falcon 9, Blue Origin’s New Glenn, and Indian Space Research Organization rockets.
They completed their first commercial satellite deployment in September 2024 with the BlueBird 1-5 mission.
Ground control systems monitor satellite health and manage their positions. The company operates gateway stations to coordinate satellite connectivity with terrestrial networks.
AST SpaceMobile owns technology for direct-to-cell communication that skips traditional terrestrial infrastructure. Their system uses standard cellular spectrum licensed from partner carriers.
The company’s 3GPP-compliant technology lets satellites integrate with existing mobile networks. Smartphones connect using the same protocols as ground-based towers.
Key innovations:
The satellites use 850 MHz spectrum from AT&T and Verizon in the U.S. Internationally, they use spectrum from Vodafone and other carriers, covering 2.8 billion subscribers.
Patent protections cover the satellite array, deployment mechanisms, and ground integration. The technology aims to address the $1.5 trillion global connectivity gap in underserved regions.
AST SpaceMobile operates under a complicated regulatory framework. They need approvals from federal agencies and international bodies.
The company has secured key FCC authorizations for testing and follows global telecom standards.
The Federal Communications Commission granted AST SpaceMobile Special Temporary Authority (STA) in August 2024. This was a big regulatory win.
The STA lets them test the first five BlueBird satellites with unmodified smartphones on AT&T and Verizon networks. The approval covers voice, data, and video—no special software or device updates needed.
AST SpaceMobile also received a launch license for five commercial BlueBird satellites. This includes V, S, and UHF frequency usage for gateway operations, feeder links, and satellite control.
Vikram Raval, AST SpaceMobile’s Global Head of Regulatory Affairs, called the FCC approvals pivotal for advancing space-based cellular broadband connectivity. The regulatory framework supports bridging the digital divide and improving emergency communications in the U.S.
AST SpaceMobile follows global regulatory standards through partnerships and international filings. In April 2024, they signed a Coordination Agreement with the National Science Foundation to address possible interference with astronomy research.
They filed updated constellation documentation with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). These filings keep them compliant with international frequency coordination and orbital slot rules.
AST SpaceMobile emphasizes its U.S. base and operates under American regulations. The company sees the U.S. as the global leader in satellite communication rules.
Their regulatory approach lets them operate across international markets. They have partnerships with over 45 mobile network operators worldwide, covering about 2.8 billion subscribers.
AST SpaceMobile trades on NASDAQ under the ticker ASTS. Stock performance closely follows satellite deployment milestones and new partnerships.
The company runs a capital-intensive model and needs a lot of funding for satellite constellation development and space infrastructure.
AST SpaceMobile stock is volatile—no surprise for an emerging space tech company. The price jumps after mission updates or satellite launches.
Market performance ties directly to technical milestones. Successful launches push the price up. Delays or technical issues bring sharp drops.
Key Performance Drivers:
Trading volume spikes around earnings and mission updates. Institutional investors have started to show more interest as commercial service gets closer.
The stock draws both growth investors and space sector specialists. Retail investors make up a big chunk of daily trading.
AST SpaceMobile brings in revenue by signing wholesale agreements with mobile network operators around the world. Their business model focuses on delivering satellite-based cellular connectivity straight to regular smartphones.
Revenue Streams:
Major carriers like Vodafone and AT&T have already signed agreements with AST SpaceMobile. These partnerships will lock in revenue as soon as commercial operations kick off.
Deploying the satellite constellation requires a lot of capital. The company must launch dozens of satellites to achieve full global coverage.
How fast revenue grows depends on how quickly they can deploy satellites and how many carriers sign on. Each satellite that goes up increases both coverage and revenue potential.
AST SpaceMobile has raised over $400 million through various funding rounds and a completed SPAC merger. They went public via a special purpose acquisition company transaction.
Major Funding Sources:
Vodafone put $65 million directly into AST SpaceMobile. AT&T also invested to secure their partnership rights.
Most of the funding has gone toward building and launching satellites. Each one costs about $10-15 million to get into orbit.
They plan to raise more funds to expand the constellation beyond the initial phase. For complete global coverage, they estimate needing 168 satellites.
AST SpaceMobile wants to launch 45 to 60 satellites by 2026. That would provide continuous broadband coverage across major global markets. Right now, they’re working on expanding their six-satellite constellation and pushing forward on direct-to-cellular technology.
AST SpaceMobile currently operates six satellites, with five already supporting commercial and government needs. By 2026, they hope to have 45 to 60 satellites in orbit to enable continuous service.
They’re planning launches every one or two months throughout 2025 and 2026. This ambitious schedule would increase their constellation nearly tenfold in just 18 months.
Priority Markets for Coverage:
They’ve got over $1.5 billion in cash and equivalents as of June 2025 to fund this expansion. AST SpaceMobile secured $575 million in gross proceeds and another $100 million in equipment financing for the buildout.
AST SpaceMobile acquired 60 MHz of global S-Band spectrum rights for $64.5 million. This complements their existing L/S-Band access and lays a foundation for premium global coverage, though some analysts aren’t sure how valuable these spectrum rights really are.
Their tech portfolio includes more than 3,700 patents and patent applications for direct-to-cellular connectivity. They can deliver peak data rates of 120 Mbps per cell globally, all with regular smartphones—no modifications needed.
They’re still testing the FM1 prototype satellite for advanced commercial and government applications. That prototype has experienced several launch delays, but it’s still scheduled to launch and test next-gen capabilities.
With this direct-to-cellular approach, users don’t need special equipment or apps. Standard mobile devices connect straight to space-based cellular towers for broadband access.
AST SpaceMobile holds agreements with almost 50 mobile network operators, covering about 2 billion customers worldwide. Major partners include AT&T, Verizon, and Vodafone across several continents.
If things go as planned, the technology could eventually reach 5.5 billion devices in use today. That’s the biggest potential market for space-based cellular broadband, especially in places that traditional networks can’t reach.
Service Applications Include:
Competition is heating up, especially with SpaceX’s Starlink moving into similar markets. They also need ongoing regulatory approvals for satellite launches and spectrum use, especially as they expand internationally.
AST SpaceMobile wants to be the first global cellular broadband network that works with unmodified mobile devices. Their approach aims to close coverage gaps where terrestrial networks just aren’t practical.
AST SpaceMobile faces tough competition from both established satellite operators and new direct-to-device providers. What sets them apart? They partner with mobile network operators and focus on connecting standard smartphones—no extra gadgets needed.
SpaceX’s Starlink is probably their biggest competitor. Starlink rolled out its Direct to Cell service in 2023, starting with text messaging and moving toward voice and data. They’ve got over 5,500 satellites in orbit and partnerships with major carriers.
Lynk Global is another direct competitor, using smaller satellites and focusing on text messaging and IoT. They’ve launched several test satellites and landed commercial agreements in different regions.
Traditional satellite operators like Iridium and Globalstar also compete, but in a different way. They offer satellite phone services that require special terminals. While they cover similar remote areas, they don’t work with regular smartphones.
Key Differentiators:
AST SpaceMobile brands itself as the “space-based cell tower” company. They highlight their seamless integration with existing mobile networks, thanks to partnerships covering over 2 billion subscribers. Strategic investments from AT&T, Vodafone, and Google back up this approach.
Instead of competing with mobile network operators, AST SpaceMobile treats them as crucial partners. They use existing spectrum licenses and customer relationships through these alliances. That’s a different strategy from competitors building separate satellite internet services.
They target markets that don’t have good cellular infrastructure. Remote regions, maritime sectors, and emergency responders are key customer groups. This focus helps them avoid direct competition with terrestrial networks in cities.
Patent protection gives AST SpaceMobile an edge. They own intellectual property for satellite architecture and communication protocols, making it harder for others to copy their direct-to-device model.
AST SpaceMobile’s satellite-to-cell technology stands apart from conventional satellite internet services. Lately, they’ve achieved successful commercial satellite deployments and landed partnerships with major carriers. The leadership team continues to drive expansion plans, aiming for global coverage via direct smartphone connectivity.
AST SpaceMobile connects straight to standard smartphones—no special equipment or terminals required. Users can make calls and use data on their existing devices when they’re outside traditional cell tower coverage.
Starlink, on the other hand, needs dedicated ground terminals and dishes. You can’t use it with a regular mobile phone; it requires special hardware.
AST SpaceMobile flies its satellites in low Earth orbit between 508 and 527 kilometers up. Their BlueBird satellites have huge 2,400 square-foot communication arrays designed for cellular frequencies.
They use cellular spectrum from carriers like AT&T and Verizon—mainly 850 MHz—to cover remote areas where ground towers can’t reach.
While Starlink focuses on broadband for homes and businesses, AST SpaceMobile aims to fill mobile connectivity gaps for smartphone users in underserved places.
AST SpaceMobile launched five BlueBird 1-5 commercial satellites in September 2024 on a SpaceX Falcon 9. By October, all five had successfully unfolded their communication arrays.
In December 2024, they completed the first commercial video call using standard smartphones via satellite. That milestone showed the tech is ready for real-world use.
AST SpaceMobile has announced plans to launch up to 60 next-gen Block 2 BlueBird satellites. These will feature even larger arrays—2,400 square feet—and hit data speeds up to 120 Mbps.
They’ve secured launch agreements with various providers, including Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket and SpaceX vehicles. Using multiple launch partners should help speed up constellation deployment.
In December 2024, AST SpaceMobile signed a commercial contract with Vodafone to bring space-based cellular connectivity to Europe and Africa through 2034.
The AST SpaceMobile subreddit serves as the main hub for investors and tech enthusiasts. Members share technical analysis, launch news, and financial updates.
Reddit users often post detailed breakdowns of satellite deployments and new partnerships. The community even includes retail investors who attended the BlueBird mission launch at Cape Canaveral.
SpaceNews and Space.com cover AST SpaceMobile’s technical milestones with professional reporting. These sites offer expert takes on satellite launches and regulatory moves.
On Yahoo Finance and StockTwits, financial forums buzz with discussions about AST SpaceMobile’s stock. Investors swap insights on market trends and earnings.
Industry publications like Compliance Week and Global Legal Post report on corporate news and leadership changes. These sources bring a business-focused perspective to company developments.
AST SpaceMobile plans to provide 100% geographic coverage in the United States using AT&T and Verizon’s 850 MHz spectrum. They’re especially targeting remote areas beyond the reach of traditional towers.
The BlueWalker 3 prototype covers over 300,000 square miles at once. Commercial BlueBird satellites will offer similar coverage from different orbital slots.
AST SpaceMobile already has agreements with mobile network operators serving over 2.8 billion subscribers worldwide. These deals stretch across multiple continents.
Their Vodafone contract covers Europe and Africa through 2034, expanding service to two huge markets.
AST SpaceMobile filed with the FCC to operate 243 satellites in 16 orbital planes. These will orbit between 725 and 740 kilometers for the best coverage.
Abel Avellan leads AST SpaceMobile as chairman and CEO. Born in Venezuela and now a U.S. citizen, he previously founded Emerging Markets Communications, which sold for $550 million in 2016.
Before that, Avellan worked at Ericsson, the Swedish telecom giant, before launching his own ventures. He started AST & Science LLC in May 2017, which later became AST SpaceMobile through a SPAC merger.
Andrew Johnson handles both CFO and chief legal officer duties, bringing financial and legal expertise to the leadership team.
Dr. Huiwen Yao oversees technical development as chief technology officer. The engineering team works out of manufacturing facilities in Midland, Texas.
The board features representatives from major investors like Vodafone and Rakuten, who joined the $110 million Series B funding round in March 2020.
AST SpaceMobile hasn’t shared any exact pricing for its satellite-to-cell service yet. Instead, they plan to make most of their money by teaming up with mobile network operators—not by selling directly to consumers.
Traditional satellite phone services? They’re expensive. You might pay $1-2 per minute just for a call, and data can cost $5-15 per megabyte. Plus, you have to buy a special handset that can run you anywhere from $500 to $1500.
AST SpaceMobile does things differently. Their system works with the smartphone you already have, so you don’t need to buy extra gear.
Most likely, users will just pay their usual carrier for expanded coverage. No need to juggle a separate satellite bill.
The company kicked off revenue with a U.S. Government contract in 2024. They’ll start seeing commercial revenue from carriers like AT&T and Verizon once the BlueBird satellites are fully up and running.
That $100 million partnership with Verizon? It shows how much mobile operators really value satellite coverage. It also hints that AST SpaceMobile could offer pricing that actually competes with traditional satellite services.
