AST SpaceMobile Announces Launch Date for BlueBird Satellites 11, 12, and 13
Cape Canaveral, Florida – July 28, 2026 – AST SpaceMobile, Inc. (NASDAQ: ASTS), a pioneer in the development of a space-based cellular broadband network, has officially announced the upcoming launch of its BlueBird satellites 11, 12, and 13. The liftoff is scheduled for August 5, 2026, at 3:42 a.m. EDT from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station aboard a Falcon 9 rocket, with an additional launch window at 5:10 a.m.
1. Building on Recent Success
This mission comes on the heels of the successful launch of BlueBird satellites 8, 9, and 10 in June 2026. With the company already in preparations for BlueBird satellites 14, 15, and 16, AST SpaceMobile is rapidly progressing toward a significant scale-up of its satellite constellation. The upcoming launch will enhance the company's ability to provide voice, data, and video services directly to standard, unmodified smartphones, thus supporting a diverse range of commercial and government applications.
2. Next-Generation Technology
The BlueBird satellites 11, 12, and 13 are equipped with AST SpaceMobile's advanced stackable architecture and lightweight composite carbon structures. These innovations facilitate efficient multi-satellite launches, significantly expediting the deployment of the company's constellation. “The upcoming launch of BlueBirds 11, 12, and 13 showcases our ability to rapidly and consistently build, launch, and deploy the largest phased arrays in low Earth orbit,” stated Scott Wisniewski, President of AST SpaceMobile.
3. Enhanced Broadband Capabilities
The new generation of BlueBird satellites is expected to nearly double the peak download speeds achieved by the initial Block 1 BlueBird satellites, which recently recorded peak download speeds of 98.9 Mbps. This mission is a vital step toward extending AST SpaceMobile's global direct-to-device broadband network, aiming to connect billions of individuals worldwide who currently lack adequate cellular service.
4. Robust Manufacturing and Workforce
AST SpaceMobile's vertically integrated operating model allows for approximately 95% of the technology utilized in its satellites to be developed in-house. The company boasts the world's largest commercial communications arrays in low Earth orbit and is supported by a workforce exceeding 2,250 employees across 500,000 square feet of manufacturing and operational facilities. This robust infrastructure underpins AST SpaceMobile's commitment to scaling its satellite production and deployment capabilities.
5. Strategic Partnerships
AST SpaceMobile has established agreements with nearly 60 mobile network operators worldwide, collectively serving over 3 billion subscribers. Key strategic partnerships with industry giants such as AT&T, Verizon, Vodafone, Rakuten, Google, Bell, Telus, stc Group, and American Tower further solidify the company's position in the competitive telecommunications landscape.
6. Public Engagement and Viewing Opportunities
Investors and members of the public are invited to witness the launch live, which will be broadcasted on AST SpaceMobile's YouTube channel. The exact timing of the launch is subject to change based on various factors, including launch readiness and weather conditions.
7. A Vision for Global Connectivity
AST SpaceMobile remains steadfast in its mission to build the first and only global cellular broadband network in space, designed to operate seamlessly with standard mobile devices. With nearly 6 billion mobile subscribers globally, the company's ambitious vision seeks to provide universal connectivity, addressing the needs of both commercial and governmental sectors.
As the launch date approaches, all eyes will be on AST SpaceMobile, as it continues to pave the way for a new era in global connectivity through its innovative satellite technology.
