Satellite
Big Three Mobile Carriers Planning to Pool Spectrum for Satellite Operators
The carriers said they’re looking to foster competition in the direct-to-device space.
Earnings
AST SpaceMobile Still on Track for 45 Satellites This Year, Company Says
An unsuccessful launch in April lost a satellite and will leave New Glenn rockets grounded until an investigation finishes.
Spectrum
Ligado Wants NOAA Spectrum for Direct-to-Device Satellite Service
Aviation groups and others told Congress they feared interference from Ligado’s plans.
Spectrum
Grain Aiming to Lease Direct-to-Device Spectrum 90 Days After Deal Closing
The firm’s founder David Grain met with FCC Chairman Brendan Carr last week to pitch the arrangement.
Public Safety
FirstNet Showcases Disaster Response Network
Officials said the public safety network is adapting to more frequent and severe disasters.
Satellite
FCC Grants AST SpaceMobile’s Direct-to-Cell Request
The satellite company can offer service with AT&T and Verizon spectrum, and operate up to 248 satellites.
LEO
Ookla: Once ‘Science Fiction,’ Satellite-to-Mobile Phone Technology is Quietly Emerging
Ookla’s latest report reveals 24.5% space satellite growth between July 2025 and March 2026.
Satellite
AST to De-Orbit Satellite After Failed Launch
The Orlando Sentinel first reported the FAA grounded the Blue Origin rocket used pending an investigation.
Spectrum
Grain Looking to Market 800 MHz for Direct-to-Cell
The investment firm is buying the spectrum from T-Mobile.
Satellite
Ligado Can Pause $100 Million Payment to Inmarsat, Judge Rules
A bankruptcy judge said there was a ‘colorable argument’ Inmarsat breached its contract by asking the FCC to deny a Ligado spectrum deal.
Satellite
Iridium Opposed to Ligado-AST SpaceMobile Deal
The incumbent fears interference from planned direct-to-cell service.
Satellite
Globalstar Opposed to Other Satellite Operators in 1.6 GHz
Iridium petitioned the FCC for access last week, and SpaceX has sought to enter the band.
Public Safety
House Lawmakers Push for Upgraded 911 Networks
Bills propose federal grants for next-gen 911, enhanced satellite alerts, and improved FCC reporting
SpaceX
Entner: Amazon’s Steep LEO Deployment Gap Needs a Waiver to Succeed
Amazon must scale from 180 satellites to above 1,600 by mid-2026, as Starlink exceeds 8,000 in orbit.
SpaceX
Bid Aims to Expand L-Band Into Direct-to-Device Connectivity
The plan repurposes more than 40 megahertz for low-Earth orbit broadband.
Briefs
Verizon Teams With AST SpaceMobile on Space-Based Cellular Service
Verizon has signed a deal with AST SpaceMobile to provide cellular service from space beginning next year.
