AST SpaceMobile's BlueBird 7 launch failure delays 2026 satellite deployment, impacting stock and timeline.

AST SpaceMobile's BlueBird 7 satellite failed due to the launch vehicle, not the satellite itself, removing a key Block 2 unit from the planned 2026 deployment. This failure caused the stock to decline after already weakening before launch, reflecting increased risks in execution and launch schedules. The company aims to have about 45 satellites in orbit by 2026 but now faces tighter demands for perfect coordination in manufacturing, launch, and integration. Despite a high valuation at around 140 times forward EV/Sales, revenue is expected to grow significantly from $180 million in 2026 to $1.8 billion by 2028.