The satellite industry is shifting focus from rockets to controlling radio spectrum for direct-to-handset connectivity. The FCC's new Supplemental Coverage from Space authorization enables satellites to beam service directly to ordinary smartphones. Key players include AST SpaceMobile, SpaceX, Rocket Lab, and Amazon, each leveraging spectrum and partnerships to dominate this emerging market. Apple plays a crucial role as the downstream beneficiary by integrating these services into its devices. Regulatory decisions and carrier certifications will be critical to the sector's future growth.
Rocket Lab announced a delay in the first flight of its Neutron medium-lift reusable rocket to 2027 after discovering voids in the carbon composite layers of the propellant dome during manufacturing. While the flaw won't cause flight failure and has ...
AST SpaceMobile's stock has fallen nearly 30% this year due to missed earnings, lawsuits, and concerns sparked by SpaceX news. Despite setbacks, the company aims to launch beta service with carriers in 2026 and have about 45 satellites in orbit by ea...
AST SpaceMobile's stock dropped 8% after Piper Sandler downgraded it to Neutral and cut the price target to $54, citing concerns over the pace of satellite launches and rising competition from SpaceX. SpaceX, which is also AST's main launch provider,...
