# BlueBird

> constellation of communication satellites

**Wikidata**: [Q131937413](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q131937413)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BlueBird)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/bluebird

## Summary
BlueBird is a constellation of communication satellites owned and operated by AST SpaceMobile. It functions as a satellite-based cellular network designed to provide telecommunications services from low Earth orbit.

## Key Facts
- **Instance Of:** Spacecraft constellation and subclass of communications satellite.
- **Operator/Owner:** AST SpaceMobile.
- **Network Affiliation:** Part of the AST SpaceMobile Network.
- **Orbit:** Located in low Earth orbit (LEO).
- **Versions:** Comprised of BlueBird block 1 (first series) and BlueBird block 2 (second series).
- **Alias:** Also known by the name SPACEMOBILE.
- **Classification:** Artificial satellite designed for telecommunications.

## FAQs
### Q: What is the primary purpose of the BlueBird constellation?
A: BlueBird is designed to serve as a satellite-based cellular network. It utilizes a constellation of communication satellites to provide telecommunications services to users from space.

### Q: Who is responsible for the operation of BlueBird satellites?
A: The BlueBird constellation is both owned and operated by AST SpaceMobile. It is the primary hardware component of the AST SpaceMobile Network.

### Q: What are the different versions of BlueBird satellites?
A: The constellation is organized into distinct series known as blocks. These include BlueBird block 1, which represents the first series of satellites, and BlueBird block 2, which is the second series.

### Q: Where are BlueBird satellites located?
A: BlueBird satellites operate in low Earth orbit (LEO). This specific orbital placement is a core technical characteristic of the communications network.

## Why It Matters
BlueBird is a critical infrastructure project in the realm of global telecommunications, functioning as a specialized spacecraft constellation. As a subclass of communications satellites—artificial satellites specifically designed for telecommunications—BlueBird serves as the backbone of the AST SpaceMobile Network. Its significance lies in its role as a satellite-based cellular network, which aims to provide connectivity from low Earth orbit (LEO). This positioning in LEO is a foundational aspect of its operational design, as confirmed by technical references from early 2025. 

By operating the BlueBird constellation, AST SpaceMobile establishes a dedicated space-based system for mobile communication, often referred to by the alias SPACEMOBILE. The project is structured into distinct developmental phases, including BlueBird block 1 and BlueBird block 2, representing the first and second series of the satellites respectively. This structured approach to satellite deployment allows for the evolution of the AST SpaceMobile Network over time. For the telecommunications industry, BlueBird represents a move toward integrated satellite-cellular solutions, moving beyond traditional ground-based limitations. As both the owner and operator, AST SpaceMobile maintains direct control over this constellation, which is categorized as a significant instance of a spacecraft constellation within the broader field of artificial satellites.

## Notable For
- **Satellite-Based Cellular Network:** Functions as a dedicated constellation for mobile telecommunications rather than traditional satellite internet.
- **Multi-Block Architecture:** Features a phased deployment strategy through the BlueBird block 1 and BlueBird block 2 series.
- **Low Earth Orbit Deployment:** Specifically engineered to operate within LEO to facilitate its communication mission.
- **Unified Ownership:** Managed, owned, and operated entirely by a single entity, AST SpaceMobile.

## Body
### Classification and Ownership
BlueBird is formally classified as an instance of a spacecraft constellation. It is a subclass of communications satellites, which are artificial satellites designed specifically for telecommunications purposes. The entire constellation is owned and operated by AST SpaceMobile.

### Technical Infrastructure
The constellation serves as the primary hardware for the AST SpaceMobile Network. It is also identified in technical and public records by the alias SPACEMOBILE. A defining technical characteristic of the constellation is its placement in low Earth orbit (LEO), a specification maintained in official network documentation as of 2025.

### Series and Components
The BlueBird constellation is divided into specific series that denote its developmental progression:
*   **BlueBird block 1:** The first series of BlueBird communications satellites.
*   **BlueBird block 2:** The second series of BlueBird communications satellites.

These blocks are considered "parts" of the overarching BlueBird entity and the broader AST SpaceMobile Network.

## References

1. [Source](https://ast-science.com/spacemobile-network/bluebird-1-5/)