AST SpaceMobile develops Blacklift rocket for 2028 launch
AST SpaceMobile is building the Blacklift rocket to launch its broadband satellites to low Earth orbit, with the first flight planned for 2028.
AST SpaceMobile announced on November 6 that it is developing a reusable rocket named Blacklift to launch its broadband satellites into low Earth orbit (LEO), with the first flight targeted for 2028. This announcement follows closely on the heels of Cowboy Space's unveiling of its Big Iron rocket, also aiming for a 2028 launch.
The Blacklift rocket is expected to significantly expand AST SpaceMobile's market reach by providing regular access to orbit and favorable economic conditions for owners in the industry. According to Abel Avellan, the company's founder and CEO, this development will accelerate their mission to enhance global connectivity, extending services beyond terrestrial networks.
Based in Texas, AST SpaceMobile is constructing a LEO constellation consisting of its BlueBird satellites, which deliver internet service directly to mobile phones. To date, the company has launched 13 BlueBird satellites, including eight variants of the "Block 2" model. Each satellite features antennas covering 2,400 square feet, the largest deployed in LEO by a commercial satellite.
AST SpaceMobile has partnered with Firefly Aerospace to supply engines for the first three Blacklift launches. The engines, named Miranda and Vira, will power the booster and upper stage, respectively. Although neither engine has flown yet, Miranda has undergone extensive ground testing.
The supply agreement for the initial launches is valued at $500 million, while the licensing agreement with Firefly costs approximately $800 million, split between cash and stock. Blacklift is designed to carry 20 tons to LEO, enabling the launch of up to five BlueBird satellites per mission.
As AST SpaceMobile prepares Blacklift for its inaugural flight, it has contracts in place to launch over 100 additional satellites in 2027 and 2028. The launch landscape may change significantly by the time Blacklift and other new rockets are operational, as SpaceX plans to phase out its Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy rockets in favor of the upcoming Starship.
