BlueBird Constellation
Overview
Space-based cellular broadband network using BlueBird satellites with massive phased array antennas (up to ~2,400 sq ft on Block 2 satellites). Connects directly to standard, unmodified 4G LTE and 5G smartphones - no special handset required. Block 2 satellites (starting with BlueBird 6) weigh ~6,100 kg and can deliver up to 120 Mbps. The full constellation of ~90 satellites will provide continuous global coverage, eliminating cellular dead zones worldwide.
13 satellites are currently in orbit after the August 5, 2026 SpaceX Falcon 9 launch of BlueBird 11, 12 and 13, following the June 17, 2026 launch of BlueBird 8, 9 and 10, with BlueBird 1-5 enabling non-continuous service tests and BlueBird 6 validating the larger Block 2 architecture (BlueBird 7 was deorbited following an April launch-vehicle insertion anomaly). AST can now build up to six BlueBirds per month and has BlueBird 14-42 in production/assembly. The roughly-45-satellite target slipped from end of 2026 to early 2027 per AST's July 15, 2026 disclosure.