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Jeff Bezos-founded Blue Origin Prepares for First New Glenn Launch in 2024, Secures AST SpaceMobile Deal for BlueBird Satellites

Nov 14, 2024, 09:52 PM

Blue Origin is preparing for the first launch of its New Glenn rocket, which is scheduled for 2024. The rocket stages have been mated and stacked, and it will soon be moved to the launch pad for final testing and integrated launch vehicle hotfire. Blue Origin, founded by Jeff Bezos, has secured a launch deal with AST SpaceMobile to deliver its next-generation BlueBird satellites to low Earth orbit (LEO). This agreement is part of AST SpaceMobile's broader plan to enable continuous space-based cellular broadband service coverage across the United States, Europe, Japan, the U.S. Government, and other strategic markets globally. The deal includes firm launches covering 45 satellites, with options up to 60 BlueBird satellites, each launch carrying eight satellites. The deal positions Blue Origin to compete with SpaceX in the space-based cellular service market.