Jul. 19 at 11:44 PM
$ASTS $SPCX $RKLB
Why ASTS? For those who doesnt fully understand what ASTS technology is all about:
The thesis is that Starlink cannot simply replace ASTS because phones cannot transmit powerful signals to normal Starlink satellites efficiently. ASTS solves the “weak phone signal” problem by deploying extremely large satellites that can hear a regular smartphone.
A successful ASTS network could potentially tap into the 4–5 billion existing mobile subscribers worldwide, while Starlink targets customers willing to buy dedicated hardware. The two companies may ultimately serve different markets rather than being direct substitutes.
AST SpaceMobile’s technology is fundamentally different from other satellite companies. Rather than asking users to buy a satellite phone or a special antenna, ASTS is building what is essentially a cell tower in space that communicates directly with ordinary 4G/5G smartphones.
Here are the most unique features:
1. The largest commercial communications antenna ever deployed in space
First-generation BlueBird satellites: 693 sq ft phased-array antenna.
* Next-generation BlueBird satellites: approximately 2,400 sq ft, over 3× larger.
* This is currently the largest commercial phased-array antenna in low Earth orbit.
The huge antenna is necessary because your phone transmits only a tiny amount of power. The satellite—not the phone—does the heavy lifting.
2. No special phone required
Unlike many satellite services, ASTS works with:
* Existing iPhones
* Samsung Galaxy phones
* Google Pixel phones
* Any compatible standard LTE/5G smartphone
No satellite antenna, dongle, or case is required.
3. Uses existing cellular spectrum
Instead of operating as a separate satellite network, ASTS partners with mobile operators such as:
* AT&T
* Verizon
* Vodafone
* Rakuten
* Bell
* 50+ mobile network operators globally
The satellite extends the carrier’s own network into areas without cell towers.
4. Massive digital beamforming
Each next-generation satellite can:
* Create 2,000+ active coverage cells
* Process 10 GHz of bandwidth
* Deliver over 150 Mbps peak speed per coverage cell
* Support millions of voice calls, texts, and broadband sessions daily across its beams.
5. Proprietary AST5000 chip
ASTS developed its own AST5000 ASIC, designed specifically for space-based cellular broadband.
Benefits include:
* Advanced signal processing
* Lower power consumption
* Higher throughput
* Compensation for Doppler effects and long-distance cellular links.
6. Modular “micron” architecture
Instead of building each satellite as one giant structure, ASTS assembles hundreds of approximately 9-square-foot “microns” into a very large phased array.
Advantages:
* Easier manufacturing
* Greater redundancy
* Faster production
* Scalable design for future satellites.
7. Far fewer satellites than competitors
Because each satellite is much larger and more capable:
* ASTS expects global service with roughly 90 satellites.
* Competitors like Starlink require thousands of satellites because each spacecraft covers a much smaller area.
Why many investors find ASTS compelling
If ASTS executes successfully, its competitive advantages include:
* Direct-to-phone broadband without new hardware
* Large, high-capacity satellites
* Partnerships with major mobile operators
* Existing global spectrum access through carrier partners
* A business model that complements, rather than replaces, terrestrial cellular networks.
These characteristics are why AST SpaceMobile is often described as building the world’s first true space-based cellular broadband network rather than a traditional satellite internet system.
