AST SpaceMobile CEO Abel Avellan unveiled plans for a self-developed 'simple' rocket called Blacklift, aimed at launching its Bluebird direct-to-cell satellites amid a commercial launch shortage. Avellan claims engine procurement is already complete and argues the rocket can be simplified to large composite tanks feeding engines, echoing SpaceX's design philosophy. Analysts caution that building rockets remains significantly more complex than his streamlined pitch suggests.
Background
AST SpaceMobile is developing large Bluebird satellites to deliver direct-to-cell broadband from ~550km LEO. A global launch capacity crunch has delayed many satellite deployments, prompting some companies to consider in-house launch solutions.
- Source
- Ars Technica
- Published
- Nov 13, 2026 at 02:28 AM
- Score
- 6.0 / 10