AST SpaceMobile’s Satellite-to-Cellular Communications Testing with AT&T
In an impressive demonstration of advanced satellite technology, AST SpaceMobile recently achieved a significant milestone by streaming an AT&T commercial directly from space to a smartphone. This test is part of a series of trials between AST SpaceMobile and AT&T, focusing on the capabilities of the BlueWalker 3 satellite, which is described by AST as the largest commercial communications array in low Earth orbit (LEO).
Celebrity-Driven Satellite Service Demonstration
The commercial itself, a clever marketing piece, features celebrities Ben Stiller and Jordan Spieth. The narrative places Stiller in a comedic scenario where he strays from a golf game into a remote area, symbolizing the common problem of losing cellular service. The solution, humorously delivered, is an AT&T satellite-based connection, showcasing the potential for satellite technology to provide connectivity in the most unlikely places. The tagline, “The future of help is an AT&T satellite call away,” succinctly captures the essence of this emerging technology.
Behind the Scenes of Satellite Streaming Technology
The streaming event occurred over a secluded part of Hawaii, demonstrating the satellite’s robust capabilities in real-world, remote settings. The process was documented in a 30-second YouTube video where AST SpaceMobile RF engineer Vani Murthy Vellanki showcased the operation. She demonstrated the streaming of an AT&T YouTube video across three smartphones, all receiving signals from the satellite. This test highlights not only the satellite’s ability to manage high-bandwidth data but also its potential to provide stable video streaming capabilities in remote locations.
Funding and Future Steps for Satellite Expansion
