The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) today approved AST SpaceMobile’s application to modify its authorization to launch and operate its non-geostationary orbit (NGSO) satellite system in low Earth orbit (LEO).
With the FCC authorization, AST SpaceMobile may deploy and operate an NGSO constellation of up to 248 satellites to deliver supplemental coverage from space (SCS) to mobile devices across the U.S. The satellites will use premium low-band spectrum: 700 MHz and 800 MHz. According to the company, this spectrum range offers superior penetration and coverage characteristics.
AST Spacemobile has already entered into deals with mobile network operators and strategic partners including AT&T, FirstNet, and Verizon.
The company’s announcement said that integrating directly with partner mobile network operator infrastructure enables AST SpaceMobile to improve the resiliency of the network and support critical communications for first responders, government agencies, enterprises and consumers, while also enabling users to access space-based cellular broadband using standard, unmodified smartphones.
“Today marks an important step, as we continue scaling our network and moving closer to commercial service,” Abel Avellan, AST SpaceMobile founder, chairman and CEO, said in a prepared statement about the FCC approval.
“We are accelerating deployment of our constellation, advancing integration with leading mobile network operators, and preparing to deliver seamless, space-based cellular broadband directly to everyday smartphones, bringing us closer to connecting people everywhere.”
About a year ago, the FCC granted AST SpaceMobile permission to test direct-to-cellular connectivity on Band 14 spectrum, which is reserved for public safety — a request made in coordination with AT&T. The service was expected to enhance public safety by doing such things as helping in the thousands of search and rescue missions it conducts annually in national parks.
