AST SpaceMobile is a U.S.-based aerospace company developing a space-based cellular broadband network designed to connect standard mobile phones and other devices directly to satellites. The company’s core proposition is “space-to-cell” service: operating a constellation of low-Earth-orbit (LEO) satellites equipped with large, high-power phased-array antennas to provide wide-area mobile broadband without requiring users to buy specialized terminals or handset modifications.
AST SpaceMobile designs, builds and operates satellite payloads and supporting ground infrastructure. Its technology roadmap has included a series of demonstration satellites under the BlueWalker program, which are intended to validate the large aperture antenna technology and the ability to hand traffic with terrestrial mobile network operators. The company focuses on end-to-end system integration—payload design, satellite manufacturing, spectrum licensing support and network operations—to enable commercial service.
The company aims to serve global markets by partnering with wireless carriers and other ecosystem participants to extend mobile coverage into rural, maritime, and underserved regions as well as to provide supplemental capacity in populated areas. Rather than selling consumer terminals, AST SpaceMobile’s intended customers are mobile network operators that would integrate satellite-delivered connectivity into their existing networks and plans for subscribers.
AST SpaceMobile was founded by Abel Avellan, who serves as chief executive and has been the public face of the company’s strategy to bridge conventional cellular networks and space infrastructure. The business remains focused on completing its satellite constellation, obtaining required regulatory clearances and executing commercial agreements with carriers to bring direct-to-handset satellite coverage to market.