AST SpaceMobile launches largest satellite yet to challenge Starlink

AST SpaceMobile (ASTS) launched its largest satellite to date on Wednesday, marking the first deployment in its planned low-Earth-orbit constellation aimed at direct-to-smartphone connectivity.

The satellite, known as BlueBird 6, lifted off from India aboard the Indian Space Research Organisation’s LVM3 rocket. The launch took place at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre earlier in the day.

In a post on X, AST SpaceMobile confirmed that BlueBird 6 successfully reached orbit. The company said the satellite is designed to act as a space-based cellular tower, delivering direct-to-smartphone service without specialized equipment.

BlueBird 6 is the largest satellite the company has launched so far. It represents the first operational unit in AST SpaceMobile’s planned constellation, which is intended to compete in the growing LEO connectivity market.

Chief Executive Officer Abel Avellan publicly thanked Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for supporting cooperation between the United States and India in space activities that enabled the launch.

AST SpaceMobile currently operates five commercial satellites in orbit. The company has said it plans to deploy more than 60 next-generation satellites during 2026 as it expands its network.

The company has entered partnerships with major telecommunications providers to integrate satellite coverage with existing cellular infrastructure. These partners include AT&T, Verizon Communications, and Vodafone Group.

Shares of AST SpaceMobile traded in New York rose about 3% during the session. The stock has gained more than 300% on a year-to-date basis.

Competition in the LEO market remains led by SpaceX and its Starlink unit. Starlink has more than 9,400 satellites in orbit, making it the largest satellite constellation assembled to date.

Starlink has partnered with T-Mobile US and reports a global customer base of 9 million users, adding more than 21,000 customers per day. SpaceX has recently trademarked “Starlink Mobile” and confirmed plans for a public offering next year.