AST SpaceMobile Considers ULA Vulcan for Satellite Launches

AST SpaceMobile is evaluating United Launch Alliance’s Vulcan rocket as a potential launch provider for its direct-to-device satellite constellation, aiming to diversify its launch options. During a May 11 earnings call, CEO Abel Avellan noted that Vulcan could carry up to five satellites, compared to three on SpaceX’s Falcon 9 and eight on Blue Origin’s New Glenn. Although AST has existing contracts with SpaceX and Blue Origin, no formal agreement with ULA has been announced. The company maintains its goal of deploying 45 satellites by year-end, despite the recent loss of BlueBird 7 due to a New Glenn upper-stage anomaly. Consequently, the next mission is scheduled for mid-June via Falcon 9. Both Vulcan and New Glenn are currently grounded pending investigations into recent anomalies, which may delay availability. ULA is proceeding with preparations for its next Vulcan flight, primarily dedicated to Amazon’s Project Kuiper, potentially limiting near-term capacity for other customers like AST SpaceMobile. Chief Strategy Officer Scott Wisniewski emphasized the importance of having multiple heavy-lift providers to ensure mission resilience and meet long-term deployment targets through 2026.