- AST SpaceMobile (ASTS, Financial) has signed a Coordination Agreement with the U.S. National Science Foundation.
- The agreement focuses on minimizing satellite interference with ground-based astronomical observations.
- Efforts include adopting International Astronomical Union’s guidelines for reducing satellite brightness.
AST SpaceMobile, Inc. (ASTS), a pioneer in creating a space-based cellular broadband network, has entered into a Coordination Agreement with the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF). The initiative aims to harmonize satellite communications operations with ground-based optical, infrared, and radio astronomy, minimizing potential interference with astronomical activities.
As part of the agreement, AST SpaceMobile commits to working closely with NSF and the U.S. astronomy community. This includes implementing measures recommended by the International Astronomical Union’s Dark and Quiet Skies initiative, such as reducing the brightness of satellites and supplying real-time satellite positioning data to observatories.
"We recognize the importance of preserving the night sky for scientific research," said Abel Avellan, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of AST SpaceMobile. He emphasized that this collaboration underscores the company's dedication to environmental and scientific responsibility, ensuring that their mission to provide global broadband access does not compromise scientific discovery.
The AST SpaceMobile network is designed to directly deliver cellular broadband to standard mobile phones, enhancing connectivity in underserved regions worldwide. This endeavor is expected to integrate millions of Americans into the digital economy and provide access to crucial online services in areas such as education, healthcare, and emergency response.
AST SpaceMobile, headquartered in Midland, Texas, holds a significant position in the Communications Equipment industry, with a market cap of $5.31 billion. The company continues to focus on bridging connectivity gaps, supporting both commercial and government applications with its innovative satellite technology.
