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.
10 satellites are currently in orbit after the successful June 17, 2026 SpaceX Falcon 9 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, has BlueBird 11-37 in production (BlueBird 11-13 set to launch in the first half of August 2026), and is targeting roughly 45 satellites in orbit during 2026.