AST SpaceMobile announced Nov. 6 that it’s building Blacklift, a reusable rocket to launch its own broadband satellites, with a first flight targeted for 2028, Space.com reports.
Context
- AST’s BlueBird satellites beam service straight to regular phones. It has launched 13, including eight Block 2 birds, whose antennas cover about 2,400 square feet each.
- CEO Abel Avellan says Blacklift gives AST “unconstrained access to orbit.”
- It comes just 10 days after Cowboy Space unveiled its Big Iron rocket, also aimed at 2028.
My take
Everybody wants their own ride to orbit now. 2028 is ambitious for a brand-new reusable rocket, so I’ll believe it when it flies.
God Bless, and Happy hacking!
