mobile communications

AST SpaceMobile has launched its first Block 1 BlueBird production satellites, designed for direct-to-smartphone connectivity, into low Earth orbit. Each satellite carries a 64-square-meter phased array antenna for broad mobile coverage. Initially, service will be limited in the U.S. until regulatory approval is granted, but global testing is authorized. The technology will allow direct satellite-to-phone communication without ground-based towers, promising connectivity in remote areas. Plans to launch more advanced Block 2 satellites next year aim to deliver faster and more reliable service worldwide.